The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) has appointed former Google executive Matt Brittin as its next director-general, marking a significant leadership shift at the public broadcaster.

Brittin, 57, will assume the role on May 18, succeeding Tim Davie, who is set to step down on April 2. His appointment comes at a critical time for the BBC as it navigates rapid changes in the global media landscape and ongoing legal and financial pressures.

In a statement, Brittin said he was honoured to take on the position at a time of both “risk” and “opportunity,” stressing the need for a strong public broadcaster in an increasingly complex and fast-changing world.

The BBC board described the role as one of the most prominent public positions in the United Kingdom.

Chairman Samir Shah said Brittin brings extensive leadership experience, particularly in managing large and complex organisations undergoing transformation.

Brittin previously spent more than a decade as president of Google’s Europe, Middle East and Africa operations, overseeing a division responsible for a substantial share of the company’s revenue.

He also worked as a consultant at McKinsey earlier in his career.

His appointment, however, has drawn mixed reactions, largely due to his lack of direct experience in television or journalism. Some critics have questioned whether a background in technology rather than broadcasting aligns with the BBC’s public service mandate.

The new director-general takes charge as the organisation faces mounting challenges, including a multi-billion-dollar lawsuit filed in the United States and declining revenue from licence fees. The broadcaster is also preparing to renegotiate its Royal Charter, which defines its governance structure, ahead of its expiration next year.

Recent financial reports indicate the BBC has experienced a significant drop in income, with fewer households paying the licence fee.

A parliamentary committee has warned that while the broadcaster remains widely trusted, it is under pressure to stay relevant, particularly among younger audiences.

Brittin’s leadership will be closely watched as he seeks to steer the BBC through these challenges while maintaining its role as a leading public service broadcaster.