New boss warns that 'tough choices are unavoidable'

Key developments are emerging from the global stage. New boss warns that 'tough choices are unavoidable'19 minutes ago Share Save Add as preferred on GooglePaul GlynnCulture reporter Watch: Matt Brittin arrives for first day as director generalNew director general Matt Brittin has told staff the "has never been more needed" but that "tough choices are unavoidable as we make savings". On his first day in the job, the former Google Europe boss said the was the "most trusted news provider, the cornerstone of our creative economy, and a force that brings people together". But he added that the broadcaster faces "very real challenges", and he must now decide how to make £500m cuts to tackle what the has described as "significant financial pressures".

Brittin has replaced Tim Davie, who resigned last year after criticism that a Panorama documentary misled viewers by editing a speech by US president Donald Trump - who is now suing the corporation. The has urged a court to dismiss Trump's multi-billion dollar Florida lawsuit, arguing that the Panorama episode never aired in the US. On Monday morning, Brittin arrived at New Broadcasting House in central London, where he told reporters he was "honoured" and "humbled" to be taking on the role.

The Details

He was also greeted by protests from the National Union of Journalists (NUJ), whose members are on strike over shift changes at World Service radio news programmes Newshour and Weekend, and Radio 4's The World Tonight. Details of further cuts to services are expected in the coming months as the corporation is expected to make to up to 2,000 job cuts to make £500m savings. 'Sense of urgency'In an email to staff, Brittin said: "The has proved throughout its history how quickly it can reinvent itself to serve the needs of audiences - from restructuring for World War II to repurposing during Covid to spinning up services in conflict zones.

We need, collectively, to call on that sense of urgency now. "That means moving with velocity and clarity. Excellence at the has always been founded on great, creative storytelling and brilliant, independent journalism.

Today it also means making sure we get the right stories in the right formats on the right platforms. "We must be where audiences are, and experiment more bravely: test ideas, learn quickly and back what works. Audiences will value the fact we are listening, innovating and working hard to serve them better.

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"I know change will not be easy. Tough choices are unavoidable as we make savings. We should ask ourselves, honestly: if we were inventing the today, what would we do?

Then respond with clarity, pace and purpose. "The former British Olympic rower worked for Google from 2007 until 2025, serving as the tech giant's head of Europe, Middle East and Africa regions.

The development has drawn wide international attention, with diplomatic circles watching closely.