The BBC is expected to name former Google executive Matt Brittin as its next director general within days, with the corporation's board meeting this week to discuss the appointment. The decision will be considered at a regular board meeting on Thursday, and an announcement could come as early as next week.
Brittin, who led Google in Europe, the Middle East and Africa for a decade until stepping down last year, is the strong favourite to replace outgoing director general Tim Davie. His potential appointment comes as the BBC faces significant challenges from the rise of digital platforms such as YouTube, owned by Google's parent company.
Brittin has expressed admiration for the British television industry, saying during a Royal Television Society fellowship speech last December that it was an industry "I've been trying to get into for a very long time." He has also stated that television is now more accurately described as "storytelling in video."
The new director general will immediately face critical talks with the government about the renewal of the BBC's royal charter and its funding model. The BBC has been resisting moves towards a subscription or advertising-funded service, arguing it would undermine its mission to provide content for everyone. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has backed placing the charter on a permanent basis.
Insiders view Brittin as similar to Davie, who resigned last year after fallout from the editing of a Donald Trump speech. Both are advocates of using technology to navigate the changing media landscape. Brittin has described AI as "a huge opportunity" for creative talent but acknowledged risks around intellectual property and creativity.
Brittin, a former member of the British Olympic rowing team in 1988, left Google last year for a "mini gap year." He is also a non-executive director of Guardian Media Group.
