Google’s Former Europe Boss Poised to Lead BBC
Matt Brittin, former head of Google in Europe, is reportedly close to becoming the next director general of the BBC, according to sources cited by . At 57 years old, Brittin is said to be in an advanced stage of the appointment process, with some insiders anticipating that he will succeed Tim Davie unless a last-minute change occurs.
Brittin, who competed as a member of the British Olympic rowing team in 1988, served as Google’s leader for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa for ten years before stepping down last year to take what he described as a “mini gap year.” His potential appointment would underscore the increasing influence of major technology companies in the media sector, particularly with the growth of online platforms and streaming services.
The BBC declined to comment on Brittin’s possible appointment. Other sources indicated that no final decision has been made and that the selection process remains ongoing.
Similarities Between Brittin and Davie
Brittin is viewed as a figure akin to Tim Davie, with both men advocating for the integration of technology within the BBC. Davie has established a “media tech” division aimed at evolving into a commercial entity and has prioritized expanding the BBC’s digital platform, .
The BBC is currently addressing challenges posed by platforms like YouTube, which has become a dominant force drawing audiences away from traditional broadcasters. Notably, YouTube is owned by Alphabet, Google’s parent company.
Challenges Ahead for the New Director General
If appointed, Brittin would inherit a role marked by significant challenges. Davie’s tenure involved managing multiple crises, including disputes over institutional bias and criticism regarding the editing of a speech by Donald Trump.
Despite Brittin’s extensive experience in senior corporate roles, questions remain about his readiness for the public scrutiny associated with leading the BBC. During a 2016 parliamentary hearing concerning Google’s relatively low corporation tax payments, Brittin appeared to suggest he was unaware of certain details.
Davie Reflects on Public Life and Leadership
In his final keynote address before stepping down, Davie spoke candidly about the harsh realities of public life. He described being portrayed as both a “Tory implant” and a “woke warrior” during his time as director general.
“I am worried slightly about where public life is going,” Davie said in a speech to the Royal Television Society in London. “I think it’s brutal. It can be very personal. Having said that, it’s just great. What a job – and someone’s got to have energy to do it. I really mean that. They’ve got to skip into the office.”
He added, “I am worried slightly about where public life is going. I think it’s brutal. It can be very personal. Having said that, it’s just great. What a job – and someone’s got to have energy to do it. I really mean that. They’ve got to skip into the office.”
Davie also highlighted the difficulties posed by political polarization and culture war rhetoric during his leadership.
“I remember seeing myself on a bus stop advert condemning me for being an Israeli government sympathiser, having just read an article expressing outrage at my pro-Palestinian bias,” he said. “I’m either a right-wing Tory implant or Britain’s chief leftist woke warrior.
“Of course, we have made mistakes and this has not helped us, but I challenge anyone to come visit our teams and not acknowledge that they are striving to achieve their impartial coverage. Smart, caring people wrestling with tough issues.”
Industry Perspectives on BBC Leadership
Some media professionals believe that managing the BBC has become increasingly difficult due to the organization’s size, political opposition, and intense competition from wealthier rivals. Although the director general role offers a salary exceeding £500,000, it is considerably lower than comparable positions in the private sector.
Several notable figures, including Jay Hunt (former BBC One controller and chief creative officer, now at Apple TV), Alex Mahon (former chief executive), and Charlotte Moore (former BBC chief creative officer, now leading Left Bank Pictures), have left the BBC for other opportunities.
Davie on Successor Qualifications
Davie stated that he did not participate in selecting his successor but emphasized that experience in public life and the right personal qualities are essential to handle the role’s pressures.
“This is not for the faint hearted,” he said. “Finally, they’ve got to be lucky. Public life can get you in 10 days or even 10 years. You can burn up on impact. You’ve got to have a few air miles in that area, I think, before you arrive at Broadcasting House.”
