Matt Brittin, the former Google executive, has officially commenced his tenure as the BBC’s new director-general, stepping into the broadcaster’s top editorial and operational role.
Arriving at Broadcasting House in central London on Monday, Mr Brittin expressed that he was "honoured" and "humbled" to take up the position as the corporation’s 18th DG.
The Director-General serves as both the chief executive and editor-in-chief of the BBC, overseeing its vast global workforce and operations across television, radio, and online platforms.
This pivotal role encompasses the editorial, operational, and creative leadership of the public service broadcaster. In a related development, the BBC has also advertised for a new deputy director-general, who will support the DG in shaping and delivering the broadcaster’s editorial strategy and standards, and will deputise as required.
The internal recruitment process for this role is set to close on 25 May.
Mr Brittin’s appointment was made by the BBC Board, which is responsible for ensuring the corporation fulfils its mission and public purposes. Chaired by Samir Shah, the board comprises 10 non-executive members, including four representing the UK nations, and four executive members.
The DG’s selection is governed by the terms of the BBC’s Charter, a government-drawn document that outlines the corporation’s existence and purposes, typically lasting around a decade. The current charter is due to expire on 31 December 2027.
The new DG’s salary is understood to be £565,000, matching that of his predecessor, Tim Davie. Mr Brittin, 57, brings a wealth of experience from his career, which included a decade as head of Google’s EMEA region before his departure in 2025.
Prior to his time at Google, he worked as a McKinsey consultant and in regional and national press, also consulting on media and technology. He has served on the boards of Sainsbury’s and the Guardian Media Group.
Beyond his corporate achievements, Mr Brittin is a Cambridge alumnus with a notable sporting background, having been part of the British Olympic rowing team for the Seoul 1988 Games and winning a bronze medal at the World Rowing Championships in 1989.
He was recently recognised with a CBE in the King’s New Year Honours list for his contributions to technology and digital skills. He follows a line of notable DGs, including Lord Tony Hall, George Entwistle – who resigned in the wake of the Jimmy Savile scandal – and Sir Mark Thompson, who later became chief executive at The New York Times.
Tim Davie concluded his five-year tenure before Mr Brittin took the helm.
