A former Google executive, Matt Brittin, is reportedly a leading candidate to succeed Tim Davie as the next director general of the BBC.
This potential appointment of a tech industry figure, rather than someone with a traditional television production or broadcasting background, would mark a notable strategic shift for the corporation.
Mr Brittin, 57, brings extensive experience from his nearly two decades at Google, where he ascended to become the company’s president for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa before announcing his departure last year.
Prior to his tenure at the tech giant, he also worked as a consultant for McKinsey.
However, his potential selection could disappoint some BBC staff and commentators who had hoped for the corporation's first female director general.
Prominent women whose names had been circulated include Alex Mahon, the former chief executive of Channel 4, and Charlotte Moore, the ex-BBC content boss who now serves as chief executive of Left Bank Pictures, the production company responsible for The Crown.
Ms Mahon, who made history as the first woman to lead Channel 4, currently leads the festival and live entertainment group, Superstruct Entertainment.
Asked if she would like to take on the job last month, she ruled herself out, pointing out she has only just started in her new role.
Mr Brittin announced his departure from Google in a post on LinkedIn, in which he spoke of “the transformative benefit that AI will have on billions of lives”.
He has since embarked on a “mini gap year”, writing: “I’ve already grown a beard, bought a single sculling boat and plan to learn scuba diving from my son when he qualifies as an instructor.”
Mr Brittin is a non-executive director of the Guardian Media Group board and prior to joining Google in 2007, spent time in media, marketing and strategy, including as commercial director at Trinity Mirror.
He also served for nine years on the board of Sainsbury’s and has been a trustee of charities including the Media Trust and the Climate Group.
Mr Brittin was a member of the British Olympic rowing team in Seoul 1988 and won a bronze medal at the World Rowing Championships in 1989.
The Cambridge alumnus also rowed in the 1987, 1988 and 1989 Boat Races.
He was made a CBE in the King’s New Year Honours list earlier this year for his services to technology and the enhancement of digital skills.
The BBC has been contacted for comment.
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