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BBC Launches Urgent Search for New Director General Amid Scandal
11 Nov
Summary
- BBC chair Samir Shah says the search for Tim Davie's replacement has already begun
- Davie resigned over the weekend due to a Donald Trump scandal and relentless criticism
- Shah bemoans the personal attacks on the BBC director general role
On November 11, 2025, the BBC announced that it has already begun the search for a new director general after Tim Davie's surprise resignation over the weekend. BBC chair Samir Shah told employees that the broadcaster had already commenced the succession planning process, drawing on plans prepared by the board.
Shah acknowledged that finding Davie's replacement will not be an easy task due to the relentless criticism and attacks the BBC and its director general face. During a town hall meeting, he expressed concern over the personal nature of the attacks, saying, "Why would someone do this job if that's what they face?"
Davie, who was present on the staff call, admitted that the role is "wearing" amid intense scrutiny, not least from the BBC's own journalists. However, he said he has no regrets and is proud of the team. Sources close to Davie said the past five years have taken a toll, with recent months being particularly bruising for the BBC amid editorial issues and misconduct scandals.
The botched Donald Trump Panorama edit, which has led to a $1 billion lawsuit threat from the former U.S. president, was reportedly a crisis too far for Davie. He decided that his presence was becoming a distraction and that it was time to step down, both for his own well-being and for the good of the organization.
The BBC is now in full search mode, with sources suggesting that strong candidates for the top job include Jay Hunt, Apple TV's boss in Europe, and Jane Turton, the All3Media CEO.
