BBC seeks 'inspirational leader' to prepare for future

The BBC Trust has formally advertised for the role of BBC director-general, with a deadline of 7 May to apply to replace Mark Thompson.

The Trust said it was looking for "an inspirational leader with the strong, clear vision that will take the BBC through the next review of the corporation's charter, ready for the world as it will be in 10 or 15 years' time".

Understanding of new platforms and technologies is essential, and experience as a journalist or programme-maker would be "desirable", the advertisement said.

Candidates will "bring extensive experience of leadership in a creative organisation, and demonstrate a clear understanding of the public service ethos underlying the BBC".

The new recruit will also need "to lead a digital BBC that can make the most of new technologies and the global, commercial possibilities that they bring".

The new director-general will be paid an annual base salary, without bonuses, that will "reflect the unique challenge and privilege of leading the BBC, as well as the fact that it is financed by licence fee payers".

The sift is being handled by recruitment consultants Egon Zehnder International.

BBC Trust head of governance Phil Harrold told staff website Ariel: "Given that this is one of the biggest jobs both in global broadcasting and in British public life, it is hardly surprising that we are using experts to help us find the best possible candidate - that's in the best interests of staff and audiences and is standard practice in any such high profile appointment.

"It is set out in the charter that it is the Trust that appoints the DG; it will be an open recruitment process and anyone can apply."

Thompson announced in March that he would be stepping down from the BBC this autumn.

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