Former Google executive Matt Brittin is set to become the next director-general of the BBC, according to multiple media reports, including The Times, which said the broadcaster’s board has approved his appointment. However, there has been no official confirmation from the BBC so far.If confirmed, Brittin would succeed Tim Davie, who is due to step down in early April, with an interim arrangement expected before Brittin formally takes charge. His selection highlights a notable shift for the BBC, bringing in a leader from a technology and digital background rather than traditional broadcasting.
A tech leader with nearly two decades at Google
Matt Brittin, 57, spent close to 20 years at Google, joining the company in 2007 and rising through the ranks to become president for Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) in 2014. In that role, he oversaw one of the company’s largest regional operations and played a key role during a period of increasing regulatory scrutiny and rapid digital transformation.He stepped down from Google in late 2024, describing his time afterwards as a “mini gap year.”Before Google, Brittin worked as a consultant at McKinsey & Company and held senior roles at Trinity Mirror, one of the UK’s largest newspaper publishers.
Education and personal life
Born in Walton-on-Thames in Surrey, Brittin was educated at Hampton School before studying Land Economy and Geography at the University of Cambridge. He later earned an MBA with distinction from London Business School.He was the first in his family to attend university. Brittin married Katherine Betts in 1995, and the couple have two sons. Known to be a fan of classic British television and science fiction, he has previously cited shows like Doctor Who among his favourites.
What he says about himself
On his LinkedIn profile, Brittin describes himself as “tall, energetic, British” and humorously adds that he is “above average at sitting down sports.” He has also referred to himself as a “gap year student” and a “part-time athlete.”He has expressed interest in “tech for good,” particularly in harnessing artificial intelligence for positive impact.After leaving Google, he said he planned to spend time reading, learning new skills, and even trying activities like scuba diving.
Sporting background: Olympian and rower
Brittin has a strong sporting background in rowing. He represented Great Britain at the 1988 Seoul Olympics and won a bronze medal at the World Rowing Championships. He also competed three times in the historic Boat Race for Cambridge University.
Board roles and honours
Beyond his corporate career, Brittin has held several board and advisory roles, including positions with The Climate Group, Media Trust, and as a non-executive director at Sainsbury’s. He is also associated with Guardian Media Group.In recognition of his contributions to technology and digital skills, he was awarded a CBE in the UK’s New Year Honours.
A different kind of BBC leader
If his appointment is confirmed, Brittin would be one of the few BBC director-generals to come from outside traditional media and editorial ranks. His digital and platform experience is seen as particularly relevant as the BBC faces increasing competition from global streaming services and tech-driven platforms.His leadership would also come at a critical time, amid debates over the BBC’s funding model, its future charter, and its role in a rapidly evolving media landscape.
