British Museum Appoints Nicholas Cullinan as New Director Following Alleged Thefts Scandal
The British Museum has named Nicholas Cullinan, the current head of the National Portrait Gallery, as its new director, following revelations last year of hundreds of alleged thefts from the museum’s collection.
Cullinan succeeds interim director Sir Mark Jones, who assumed the role after the resignation of former director Hartwig Fischer amidst the scandal surrounding the missing objects.
Approved by the board of trustees and Chancellor Rishi Sunak, Cullinan is set to assume his new position in the summer, taking over from Jones.
Expressing his gratitude for the opportunity, Cullinan emphasized the British Museum’s esteemed reputation and pledged to work with its staff and board to usher in a new era for the institution.
Cullinan faces the challenge of addressing the fallout from last year’s discovery that approximately 1,500 artefacts from the museum’s collection were either missing, stolen, or damaged, alongside overseeing renovation efforts.
Having previously served as director of the National Portrait Gallery, Cullinan brings a wealth of experience, including overseeing the museum’s extensive refurbishment and reopening at Trafalgar Square.
His professional background also includes roles at prestigious institutions such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and Tate Modern in London.
George Osborne, chair of the British Museum’s trustees, expressed confidence in Cullinan’s leadership abilities, citing his track record and potential to steer the museum towards a successful future.
Cullinan’s appointment signals a new chapter for the British Museum, characterized by renewed confidence and a proactive approach to addressing challenges.
