Celebrated media executive Dr Samir Shah CBE has been confirmed as the new Chairman of BBC. After clearing stages of scrutiny, Shah's appointment will be approved by King Charles III this week. He is the first Indian-origin person to assume the role at BBC.
"Following Privy Council approval on 21 February, Dr Samir Shah CBE has been appointed for 4 years from 04 March 2024 to 03 March 2028," said a UK government portal.
Shah, born in Aurangabad in 1952 and relocating to the UK in 1960, has a vast history in broadcasting and media management. He held several important roles, ultimately becoming the CEO of Juniper TV.
His journey in broadcasting began in 1979 with London Weekend Television. In 1987, he took on the role of the head of BBC's television current affairs division. This position served as a stepping stone for his subsequent appointment as the head of BBC's political journalism programs from 1994 to 1998.
He bought Juniper TV in 1998 and was named one of the three non-executive directors of BBC in 2007.
Shah's succeeds Richard Sharp, who stepped down amid controversy surrounding his email exchanges with former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Sharp's failure to disclose his involvement in facilitating Johnson's acquisition of an £800,000 loan led to his departure following an official inquiry.
