Former Google executive Matt Brittin named BBC director-general
The 57-year-old, who spent nearly 20 years at Google after an early career at McKinsey, rose to become president for Europe, the Middle East and Africa before announcing his departure from the company last year.
Matt Brittin, the former head of Google’s European operations, has been appointed Director General of the BBC, the corporation has confirmed.
The 57-year-old, who spent nearly 20 years at Google after an early career at McKinsey, rose to become president for Europe, the Middle East and Africa before announcing his departure from the company last year.
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Tim Davie, who had led the broadcaster since 2020, stepped down in November 2025 following a controversy over a Panorama edit of a speech by Donald Trump; his resignation was announced at the same time as that of BBC News chief executive Deborah Turness.
Mr Brittin said: “Now, more than ever, we need a thriving BBC that works for everyone in a complex, uncertain and fast changing world.
“It’s an extraordinary, uniquely British asset, with over 100 years of innovation in storytelling, technology and powering creativity.”
Matt Brittin said the BBC needs ‘pace and energy’ to be where stories and audiences are
He added that he is “honoured and excited” to have been asked to take on the Director General role.
“Working alongside so many talented journalists, creatives and technicians, across the country and around the world, I join with humility, to listen, to learn, to lead and to serve the public, working hard to earn their trust every day,” he said.
He described the moment as one of “real risk” but also “real opportunity”.
“The BBC needs the pace and energy to be both where stories are and where audiences are,” he said.
“To build on the reach, trust and creative strengths today, confront challenges with courage and thrive as a public service fit for the future,” he added.
Mr Brittin has a sporting pedigree as well as a corporate one: he was selected for the British Olympic rowing squad for Seoul 1988 and took bronze at the 1989 World Rowing Championships.
The Cambridge graduate also competed in the Boat Race in 1987, 1988 and 1989.
He was appointed a CBE in the king’s New Year honours list earlier this year for services to technology and the enhancement of digital skills.
The BBC said he will appoint a Deputy Director General to join the executive team.
Mr Brittin is due to begin on 18 May and will receive a salary of £565,000 (€652,000).