BBC Director General Matt Brittin will make his first major industry appearance at the Edinburgh Television Festival this August, taking part in an 'In Conversation' session about his opening months in one of British media's most closely watched roles. The appearance matters because it comes at a pivotal moment for the corporation, with charter renewal on the horizon and widespread uncertainty across the television industry about the BBC's direction.

Brittin succeeded Tim Davie on 18 May, becoming the first Director General since Greg Dyke in 2000 to take the post without prior experience at the broadcaster, having previously worked for technology firms including as Google's head in EMEA. Festival chair Fatima Salaria said his choice of Edinburgh for his first major appearance was significant, promising a lively and serious conversation. The event also marks the festival's final year in the Scottish capital, as Greater Manchester has won the rights to host it from 2027, ending a 50-year run.