The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) has named Dr. Samir Shah as its chair, effective March 4, 2023, for a four-year term, following his nomination by the UK government in December 2023. Shah, a seasoned figure in broadcasting with over four decades of experience, marks the first person of Indian origin to hold this position. Before assuming this role, he served as the CEO of Juniper, an independent television and radio production company, since 1998, and previously held key positions at the BBC, including head of current affairs and political programmes.
In recognition of his extensive contributions to journalism, Shah received the Royal Television Society’s outstanding contribution award (equivalent to a Lifetime Achievement award) in 2022. Over the years, he has held various influential roles, including non-executive director of the BBC, chair of the museum of the home, trustee and deputy chair of the V&A, chair of the Runnymede Trust, and chair of One World Media. Shah’s notable honors include being appointed Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2019 and receiving an OBE in the 2000 New Year’s Honours list.
Acknowledged for his expertise in the field, Shah was elected a fellow of the Royal Television Society in 2002 and appointed as a visiting professor of creative media at Oxford University in 2019. Additionally, the University of Nottingham bestowed upon him a special professorship in the department of post-conflict studies.
In response to his appointment, he expressed his reverence for the BBC’s cultural significance and emphasized its vital role in British society. As chair of the BBC’s board, Shah pledges to safeguard its independence and uphold its mission to inform, educate, and entertain, especially in an increasingly competitive media landscape.
