Google’s former president for Europe, Middle East and Africa has been named the new director-general of the BBC, the corporation announced.
It said in a statement on March 25 that the BBC board had appointed Matt Brittin as the 18th director-general and that he would take over the role on May 18.
The director-general serves as chief executive officer and editor-in-chief of the BBC. Mr Brittin, 57, will earn an annual salary of £565,000 (shs2.8bn)—about the annual pay of nearly 500 Ugandan special police constables.
The BBC said the position holder is responsible for the creative, editorial and operational leadership at the corporation within the United Kingdom and around the globe.
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Mr Brittin’s appointment brings a senior technology executive into a role traditionally held by editorial leaders.
He was educated at the University of Cambridge and went on to pursue an advanced degree at the London Business School, joining McKinsey, a US consulting firm.
Former director of BBC Cymru Wales Rhodri Talfan Davies will lead the BBC as interim director-general.
Tim Davie, the outgoing director-general, announced his resignation in November 2025 after the Telegraph reported that the BBC had doctored a Donald Trump speech by making him appear to encourage the Capitol Hill riot.
During the transition, Mr Matt will undergo an onboarding process and begin detailed introductory meetings to get a full understanding of the business, the centre said.
Mr Matt said of his appointment: “Now, more than ever, we need a thriving BBC that works for everyone in a complex, uncertain and fast changing world. At its best, it shows us—and the world–who we are.”
“It’s an extraordinary, uniquely British asset, with over 100 years of innovation in storytelling, technology and powering creativity. I’m honoured and excited to be asked to serve as director-general,” Mr Brittin added.
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He said he was humbled to work alongside so many talented journalists, creatives and technicians across the UK and around the world and that he would listen to learn, to lead and to serve the public and earn their trust every day.
Mr Matt previously worked in regional and national press before joining Google in 2007. He quit in 2025 after serving as EMEA president for 10 years.
According to the Guardian, some insiders have raised concerns about Mr Brittin’s limited editorial experience. The paper said he is expected to rely on a deputy with strong editorial credentials, while a new head of BBC News will also be appointed.
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