The BBC is expected to appoint 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 grapples with significant changes in media consumption driven by digital platforms such as 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 noted that during his time at Google, he sought to position big tech as 'partners not predators' to the creative industry.
The new director general will face immediate critical talks with the government regarding the renewal of the BBC's royal charter and its funding model. The BBC leadership has resisted moves towards a subscription or ad-funded service, arguing it would undermine its mission to provide content for everyone. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has backed the idea of putting the charter on a permanent basis.
Brittin, a Doctor Who fan, has described the media industry as living through 'an incredible time of disruption' and acknowledged 'divides across society'. He views AI as 'a huge opportunity' for new creative talent but recognises risks around intellectual property and creativity. A former member of the British Olympic rowing team in 1988, Brittin left Google last year for a 'mini gap year' and serves as a non-executive director of Guardian Media Group.
