Shumeet Banerji, a non-executive director of the BBC, has resigned from the corporation, citing “governance issues” at the highest levels.
In a letter, Banerji said he was “not consulted” about the circumstances leading to the resignations of BBC Director-General Tim Davie and BBC News chief executive Deborah Turness earlier this month.
He confirmed his departure on Friday, the BBC said.
The resignations of Davie and Turness followed controversy over a Panorama episode that edited portions of former US President Donald Trump’s 2021 speech, creating the impression he directly encouraged violence during the Capitol riot on 6 January 2021.
While the BBC has apologised for the misleading edit, Trump has demanded financial compensation, which the corporation has refused.
Banerji’s resignation highlights growing concerns about the BBC board’s operations.
The board, which oversees the corporation’s strategy and executive management, is chaired by Samir Shah.
Banerji’s statement appeared to directly criticise Shah and other board members, questioning the board’s decision-making processes.
The BBC board, which includes political appointees such as Shah and Sir Robbie Gibb, is scheduled to appear before the Culture, Media and Sport Committee of MPs on Monday.
Lawmakers are expected to question them about allegations of systemic bias in BBC coverage, including reporting on the Israel-Gaza conflict and gender-related issues.
These claims were initially rejected by Turness and Davie.
Banerji, who joined the BBC board in 2022, is the founder of a technology-focused advisory and investment firm and previously led management consultancy Booz & Company.
As a non-executive director, he was tasked with upholding the independence of the BBC and acting in the public interest.
A BBC spokesperson said:
“Shumeet Banerji today notified the BBC Board of his resignation. Mr Banerji’s term as a non-executive director was due to end at the end of December, and we thank him for his service. The search for a replacement is already underway and we will provide updates in due course.”
