Former Google executive Matt Brittin has been announced as the BBC’s new director-general.
The appointment of a leader with a big tech background, rather than someone with TV production and broadcasting experience, marks a shift for the broadcaster in terms of skill set.
Some staff and commentators had been hoping for a different kind of change – to see the first female director-general in the corporation’s history.
But Mr Brittin’s announcement had become widely expected after reports he was approved by the BBC board at a meeting last week.
He replaces the outgoing director-general Tim Davie, who announced his resignation in November after five years in the role, following criticism over the editing of a video clip of US President Donald Trump.
Who is Matt Brittin?
Mr Brittin is a non-executive director of the Guardian Media Group board and prior to joining Google in 2007, spent time in media, marketing and strategy, including as commercial director at Trinity Mirror.
He also served on the board of Sainsbury’s for nine years and has been a trustee of charities including the Media Trust and the Climate Group.
Outside of work, he was a member of the British Olympic rowing team in Seoul in 1988, and won a bronze medal at the World Rowing Championships in 1989.
He was made a CBE in the King’s New Year Honours list earlier this year for his services to technology and the enhancement of digital skills.
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