Tim Davie, the outgoing director-general of the BBC, is poised to take on a prominent new role as co-chair of the Creative Industries Council following his departure from the corporation.
The 58-year-old is scheduled to assume the position on 1 August, succeeding Sir Peter Bazalgette. His exit from the BBC will see interim director-general Rhodri Talfan Davies step in on 2 April, before former Google executive Matt Brittin takes the permanent helm on 18 May.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the new challenge, Mr Davie stated: "It is a privilege to be asked to chair the Creative Industries Council and champion a sector that’s a world-class success story for the UK."
He highlighted the sector’s potential for economic contribution, adding: "With the right backing, there’s a huge opportunity for our creative industries to deliver not only significant growth for the UK economy in the years ahead, but good growth that supports jobs and skills in every part of the country."
He further committed to ensuring the sector "will continue to punch well above its weight for the UK."
Initially, Mr Davie will co-chair alongside Baroness Shriti Vadera until her term concludes on 31 December, after which he will become the sole industry chair.
The council serves as a vital forum, uniting government and the creative sectors to advocate for their interests. Mr Davie will lead the council alongside Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy and Business Secretary Peter Kyle, with a focus on innovation, access to finance, workforce development, trade, and investment within the creative industries.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy welcomed the appointment, noting: "Tim brings with him a wealth of knowledge from his diverse career, including his previous tenure in this position."
She also extended gratitude to Sir Peter Bazalgette and Baroness Vadera for their contributions. This marks Mr Davie’s second time serving as the industry chair of the council, having previously held the post in 2018
