Possible candidates Who will replace Davie as director general?

As the fallout over the accusations of bias batters the BBC, the corporation's chair, Samir Shah, has already raised the need for a “smooth transition” as he kicks off the hunt for a replacement for the outgoing director general, Tim Davie.

- Mark Sweney

With the focus on issues regarding the corporation's news output there is speculation that Shah, who has 40 years' experience in TV production and journalism, may look for a candidate with strong experience in the sector.

However, given the scale of the BBC's sprawling operation, and the need for Davie's successor to handle tough negotiations with the government over the renewal of the royal charter in 2027, strong commercial credentials will also be a prerequisite.

Here are the leading candidates to replace Davie:

Alex Mahon

The former Channel 4 chief executive was approached by the BBC about putting her hat in the ring last time around but she declined to be shortlisted.

Mahon stepped down in the summer having served nearly eight years - the first female chief executive in the broadcaster's four-decade history - and during her tenure helped fight off the latest government attempt at privatisation.