The BBC has moved swiftly to appoint an interim leader following the resignation of its director-general, Tim Davie. Rhodri Talfan Davies, currently serving as the corporation's director of nations, has been confirmed to step into the top role on a temporary basis.
A Seamless Transition at the Top
Mr Davies, who also holds a position on the BBC's executive committee, is set to join the BBC board as an executive director from 1 February 2026. He will then officially assume the responsibilities of interim director-general on 3 April, the day after Mr Davie's departure.
In a note circulated to staff, BBC chair Samir Shah offered strong endorsement for the appointment. "He is an outstanding leader who brings deep editorial experience and a passionate commitment to the power of public service broadcasting to reach and represent audiences across all parts of the UK," Mr Shah stated. "I know you will give him your support."
Praising the Outgoing Leader
Regarding Tim Davie, who will leave his role on 2 April, the BBC chair added: "There will be a time to celebrate Tim and thank him for his extraordinary contribution to the BBC nearer his departure date. Until then, Tim continues to lead the corporation through this critical period as we prepare our response to the Government's consultation on its green paper on the future of the BBC charter."
The Circumstances of Resignation
Tim Davie's resignation in November 2025 followed significant controversy. Allegations emerged that the BBC had selectively edited a speech by former US President Donald Trump, broadcast on the day of the US Capitol attack, for a Panorama documentary. This incident sparked intense debate about editorial standards and impartiality at the broadcaster.
In a statement to staff following his resignation from the role he assumed in 2020, Davie acknowledged the challenges. "Like all public organisations, the BBC is not perfect, and we must always be open, transparent and accountable," he said. "While not being the only reason, the current debate around BBC News has understandably contributed to my decision. Overall the BBC is delivering well, but there have been some mistakes made and as director-general I have to take ultimate responsibility."
The Search for a Permanent Successor
The BBC has confirmed that the process to appoint a permanent director-general is already underway. In the meantime, Rhuanedd Richards will continue to serve as interim nations director while Mr Davies fulfills his temporary duties at the helm.
Davies' Background and Responsibilities
As director of nations since 2021, Rhodri Talfan Davies has overseen the corporation's work serving national and local audiences across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. His portfolio includes significant strategic initiatives:
- Leading the BBC's Across The UK strategy, which aims to decentralise the organisation and move more production and decision-making outside London.
- Overseeing the corporation's deployment of generative artificial intelligence technology across its operations.
- Managing the BBC's relationships and content delivery across all four UK nations.
According to the latest available figures, as of July 2025, Mr Davies received an annual salary between £305,000 and £309,999 for his role as director of nations. His interim appointment comes at a crucial juncture for the broadcaster as it navigates charter renewal discussions and ongoing debates about its future direction and funding model.
