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 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. He has spoken of his long admiration for the British television industry, describing it as one he had been trying to enter for a very long time.
The appointment comes as the BBC faces major challenges from the rise of digital platforms such as YouTube, owned by Google's parent company. Brittin has said big tech could be 'partners not predators' and that the industry is living through 'an incredible time of disruption'.
The new director general will immediately engage in critical talks with the government over the BBC's royal charter renewal and funding model. The corporation has been resisting pressure to switch to a subscription or ad-funded service, warning this would undermine its mission to provide content for everyone.
Brittin has described the rise of artificial intelligence as a 'huge opportunity' for new creative talent but acknowledged risks around intellectual property. He is a former member of the British Olympic rowing team and a non-executive director of Guardian Media Group.
