The new BBC director-general, Matt Brittin, has revealed that he sought advice from former Prime Minister Gordon Brown before taking on the role, which his friends have described as 'thankless'.
Background and Appointment
Matt Brittin, 57, was confirmed as the corporation's new director-general in March, succeeding Tim Davie, who resigned after a series of controversies. Brittin, a former president of Google in Europe, arrived at the BBC with no broadcasting experience but has spent recent weeks immersing himself in the BBC's offices across the country. He left Google last year after 18 years at the tech giant, the last 10 as president for Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
Challenges Ahead
One of Brittin's first tasks will be overseeing the renewal of the BBC's Royal Charter, the agreement with the government that defines the corporation's role and governance. The BBC needs to find up to £600 million in savings as it is forced to reduce costs by 15%. He will also need to appoint a deputy director-general, an internal hire. Current acting director-general Rhodri Talfan Davies is expected to get the nod and will oversee complaints and monitor riskier programs. This could allow Brittin to focus on strategy, technology, and government relations.
Past Controversies
Outgoing boss Tim Davie resigned after widespread criticism over a misleading edit of a Donald Trump speech in a Panorama documentary, leading to a $10 billion lawsuit from the US President. His final year also saw the sackings of high-profile presenters including MasterChef hosts Gregg Wallace and John Torode and Radio 2 host Scott Mills. BBC insiders felt Davie was stretched too thin; a former BBC News boss noted that Davie lacked a strong deputy, unlike Mark Thompson who had Mark Byford.
Brittin's Background
Brittin had planned a 'mini gap year' after leaving Google, stating he wanted to apply his tech and leadership knowledge to education, business, science, and society. His appointment as a tech executive without TV experience marks a break with tradition. He was part of the British rowing team at the 1988 Seoul Olympics and can expect a financial package comparable to Davie's £540,000-£544,999. In 2016, he told MPs he didn't know his own salary during questioning about a tax deal between HMRC and Google. In February 2025, he joined Guardian Media Group's board as a non-executive director.
Gordon Brown's Role
Gordon Brown, who gave advice to Brittin, is already ruffling feathers inside Number 10 after being nicknamed 'the real Deputy Prime Minister' by Sir Keir Starmer's inner circle. After advising Brittin, Brown was sought by Starmer to help after a brutal night of local elections. Brown's appointment as Special Reviewer on Global Finance and Cooperation last week angered some Labour MPs, who felt sitting MPs were overlooked. Brown will report directly to Starmer and is tasked with building international finance partnerships for defence and security.
