The British Broadcasting Corporations Board of Governors has concluded its process to select a BBC Director-General by appointing Mark Thompson.
The decision was unanimous. In considering the requirements of the role, the Governors sought a candidate with unquestionable public service credentials and commitment to the BBC’s editorial mission. They also required a candidate with the qualities to lead the BBC successfully through the Charter review process.
Speaking on behalf of the Board, BBC Chairman Michael Grade said: “We were impressed by Mark Thompson’s analysis of the challenges facing the BBC, and by his track record. We concluded that he was the right person to lead the BBC at this important period in its history. All the Governors wish to place on record their immense gratitude to Mark Byford for his outstanding stewardship of the BBC over the last few difficult months.”
Thompson returns to the BBC following two years at Channel 4. He originally joined the BBC in 1979, rising to become director of television, and effectively number two to Dyke. His move to Channel 4 was seen as an acceptance of the need to gain experience in the commercial sector before returning to the BBC as Dyke’s successor. Dyke’s sudden resignation in the wake of the Hutton Enquiry created such a vacancy earlier than anticipated.