The newly appointed BBC director-general, Matt Brittin, has issued a stark warning that the corporation must make 'difficult choices about its size and shape' as it navigates a period of significant transformation. The former Google executive, who took up the role this week, acknowledged that shifts in consumer behaviour are already driving changes to the BBC's programming and services.
Speaking on BBC Radio 4's The Media Show on Wednesday, Mr Brittin revealed that he learned about the corporation's plans to cut 2,000 jobs at the same time as staff. He described it as a 'focusing moment' for the BBC, adding: 'I don't know a company or organisation that's not having to make similar moves at the moment because of the uncertainty in the world.'
The 57-year-old emphasised that the BBC must 'serve its content into the digital environment' and make choices about how to do so more efficiently. He stressed the importance of maintaining trust, noting that 'people trust journalists... to be there and explain the complicated world to them.'
Mr Brittin, who spent two decades at Google, said the corporation must 'reinvent this institution to serve in today's moment.' He acknowledged that while the shift to digital is 'a distance away,' choices about programmes and services are inevitable. However, he expressed confidence that the BBC can still 'aim to be the world's best creative organisation.'
Reflecting on the recent Panorama documentary about sexual misconduct on Married At First Sight, Mr Brittin praised the bravery of the women who came forward, saying it is 'one of the things we should be proud of – having the resources to bring these kinds of stories to light.'
On the future of the licence fee, Mr Brittin said he believes the BBC is 'best placed to be funded directly' as the corporation prepares for its charter renewal. He is currently focused on 'listening and learning' during his early days in the role, following the departure of predecessor Tim Davie last month after five years.
