India-Born Samir Shah May Take Over as New BBC Chairman

An India-born media executive Samir Shah has been shortlisted as the UK government’s preferred candidate to take over as the next BBC chairman.

The 71-year-old has over 40 years of experience in TV production and journalism. He has received a CBE (Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) by Queen Elizabeth II in 2019.

Shah is expected to succeed Richard Sharp, who was forced to resign after his communication with former Prime Minister Boris Johnson came under scrutiny.

Shah will now be interviewed by the MPs of the House of Commons Media Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee for pre-appointment before his formal appointment as BBC chief.

Born in Aurangabad, Shah came to England in 1960. He headed the current affairs and political programmes at the BBC in the past. Now he is the CEO and owner of Juniper, an independent television and radio production company. Shah was also a non-executive director of the BBC between 2007 and 2010.

Although the BBC is politically independent, its chairperson is appointed by the British government.