Matt Brittin, who succeeded Tim Davie as director-general of the BBC in May, has said he was not aware of the full "severity" of the spending reductions the organisation would require.
Brittin's comment is a candid acknowledgement of the scale of the financial and operational challenge facing the public broadcaster since he took the top role. He took over leadership of the BBC following Tim Davie's departure in May.
The admission underlines the difficult position confronting the corporation as it seeks to implement cost-saving measures. Brittin's statement frames the task ahead for management at a time when the BBC's strategy and budgets are under close public and political scrutiny.
As director-general, Brittin now faces responsibility for carrying out whatever cuts are judged necessary while maintaining the broadcaster's services and public remit. His remarks are likely to shape expectations about the pace and scope of any further announcements on programming and staffing.
Observers said the transition between leaders and the new administration's approach to cost control will be watched closely by audiences, staff and policymakers. Brittin's recognition of the magnitude of the effort may be intended to set a frank tone as he implements the corporation's next steps.