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 for a final discussion about the appointment. The decision will be discussed at a regular board meeting on Thursday, and an announcement could come as soon 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 grapples with changes in media consumption driven by digital platforms like YouTube, owned by Google's parent company.
Brittin has expressed long-standing admiration for the British television industry. Accepting a Royal Television Society fellowship in December, he said it was an industry “I’ve been trying to get into for a very long time.” He has described television as “storytelling in video” and believes big tech can be “partners not predators” for the creative industry.
The new director general will face critical talks with the government over the BBC's royal charter renewal and funding model. The BBC has resisted switching to a subscription or ad-funded service, arguing it would undermine its mission to provide content for everyone. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has backed putting the charter on a permanent basis.
Insiders view Brittin as similar to Davie, who resigned after fallout over an edited Donald Trump speech. Both are advocates of using technology to navigate the changing media landscape. Brittin has described AI as “a huge opportunity” for new creative talent but acknowledged risks around intellectual property and creativity.
Brittin, a former British Olympic rower, left Google last year for a “mini gap year” and is a non-executive director of Guardian Media Group.
