Diaspora (Commonwealth Union) _ Samir Shah, a seasoned India-born media executive with over 40 years of experience in TV production and journalism, has been selected as the UK government’s preferred candidate for the position of BBC chairman. The 71-year-old, honored with a CBE in 2019, is set to replace Richard Sharp, who resigned amid scrutiny of his communication with former Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Shah’s appointment is pending pre-appointment scrutiny by cross-party MPs before assuming responsibilities at the public service broadcaster.
Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer acknowledged Shah’s wealth of experience in TV production and journalism, spanning more than 40 years, making him a suitable candidate for the BBC Chair role. She emphasized Shah’s ambition to guide the BBC through a rapidly changing media landscape and contribute to meeting future challenges and opportunities.
Frazer highlighted Shah’s knowledge of the BBC and his commitment to its role as a national broadcaster. She underscored the importance of Shah’s work in promoting diversity in broadcasting, emphasizing the invaluable contribution he can make to ensure the BBC reflects and serves communities across the UK.
In response, Shah expressed his clear ambition to see the BBC succeed and acknowledged the organization’s significant role in global culture and soft power. He expressed his honor in potentially utilizing his skills, experience, and understanding of public service broadcasting to help the BBC navigate the complex and diverse challenges it faces.
Born in Aurangabad, India, Shah moved to England in 1960 and previously served as the head of current affairs and political programs at the BBC. As the CEO and owner of Juniper, an independent television and radio production company, Shah brings a wealth of expertise to the role. His role as a non-executive director of the BBC from 2007 to 2010 and his contribution to the government’s Commission on Race and Ethnic Disparities report in 2021 showcase his multifaceted experience.
Shah’s appointment as BBC chairman, a three-day-a-week role with an annual salary of £160,000, comes at a crucial juncture for the broadcaster. Facing financial challenges, including a two-year freeze on the cost of a TV license and the need to make £500 million in savings, Shah will play a key role in leading negotiations with the government over the future of the license fee.
The BBC spokesperson welcomed Shah’s selection, marking a notable change as a journalist takes the helm. Shah’s half-brother, Mohit Bakaya, is also a BBC veteran, serving as the controller of BBC Radio 4. The appointment reflects a significant transition for the BBC, which is navigating financial constraints and evolving media landscapes
