Matt Brittain, the former Google executive, 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 had approved his appointment.
But there has been no official confirmation from the BBC yet.If confirmed, Brittain will succeed Tim Davie, who is set to step down in early April, with an interim arrangement expected before Brittain officially takes over. His selection highlights a notable shift at the BBC, bringing in a leader from a technology and digital background rather than traditional broadcasting.
A technology leader for nearly two decades at Google
Matt Brittain, 57, has spent nearly 20 years at Google, joining the company in 2007 and rising through the ranks to become head of Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) in 2014.
In this role, he oversaw one of the company’s largest regional operations and played a key role during a period of increased regulatory scrutiny and rapid digital transformation.He resigned from Google in late 2024, describing his time thereafter as a “little gap year.”Before Google, Brittain 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
Brittain was born in Walton-on-Thames in Surrey, and was educated at Hampton School before studying land economics and geography at Cambridge University. He later obtained an MBA with distinction from London Business School.He was the first in his family to attend university. Brittain married Katherine Bates in 1995, and they have two sons. Known as a fan of classic British television and science fiction, he has previously cited shows such as Doctor Who among his favourites.
What does he say about himself?
On his LinkedIn profile, Brittain describes himself as a “tall, active Brit,” and jokingly adds that he is “above average at exercise.” He has also referred to himself as a “gap year student” and “part-time athlete.”He has expressed an interest in “technology for good,” especially in harnessing artificial intelligence for positive impact.After leaving Google, he said he plans to spend time reading, learning new skills, and even trying activities like diving.
Sports background: Olympian and rower
Brittain has a strong background in rowing. He represented Great Britain at the 1988 Seoul Olympics and won a bronze medal at the World Rowing Championships. He also participated three times in the historic regatta for Cambridge University.
Council roles and honors
In addition to his corporate career, Brittain has held numerous advisory and board roles, including positions at 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 UK New Year’s Honors Medal.
A different kind of BBC leader
If confirmed, Brittain will be one of the few BBC directors-general to come from outside the traditional media and editorial ranks. His digital and platform expertise is seen as particularly important as the BBC faces increasing competition from global broadcast services and technology-driven platforms.His leadership will 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.
