Renowned media executive Dr. Samir Shah CBE has been officially appointed as the new Chairman of the BBC. Subject to King Charles III’s approval later this week, Shah, after successfully clearing scrutiny stages, will become the first individual of Indian origin to hold this esteemed role at the BBC.
“Following Privy Council approval on 21 February, Dr. Samir Shah CBE has been appointed for a term of four years from 04 March 2024 to 03 March 2028,” announced a UK government portal.
Born in Aurangabad in 1952 and relocating to the UK in 1960, Shah brings a wealth of experience in broadcasting and media management. His extensive journey in the field began in 1979 with London Weekend Television. Notably, he assumed the position of the head of BBC’s television current affairs division in 1987, serving as a stepping stone to his subsequent role as the head of BBC’s political journalism programs from 1994 to 1998.
In 1998, Shah acquired Juniper TV and later became one of the three non-executive directors of the BBC in 2007.
Dr. Samir Shah CBE 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.
