Matt Brittin will lead the BBC as DG from May, replacing Tim Davie.
The former Google executive has been appointed as the Corporation’s 18th Director-General, taking over on 18 May after a short handover period.
His salary will be £565,000, and he is expected to appoint a Deputy Director-General.
Rhodri Talfan Davies will act as interim Director-General from 2 April following Tim Davie’s departure, with full executive responsibility until Matt formally begins. During that time, Matt will undergo onboarding and meet senior teams to understand the organisation.
The Director-General role carries responsibility for the BBC’s editorial direction and overall leadership in the UK and internationally, at a time when the organisation faces changes in audience behaviour and scrutiny over its funding model.
BBC Board Chairman Samir Shah said: “Matt brings to the BBC deep experience of leading a high-profile and highly-complex organisation through transformation.” He added that the appointment comes “at a critical time” as the Government reviews the BBC Charter and considers reforms to funding and structure.
Matt said: “Now, more than ever, we need a thriving BBC that works for everyone in a complex, uncertain and fast changing world.” He added he would work “to listen, to learn, to lead, and to serve the public”.
Matt joined Google in 2007, leading its UK business before heading operations across Europe, the Middle East and Africa for a decade. He left the company in 2025 and has also held roles in national and regional press.