Outgoing BBC chief Tony Hall to take up National Gallery Chair

Lord Tony Hall will take up a new position as chair of the board at the National Gallery, following his announcement that he will step down as the Director-General of the BBC later this year.

He takes over the role at the National Gallery from interim chair Sir John Kingman, who has been in the post since Hannah Rothschild’s departure in September 2019.

Lord Hall, who has served on the National Gallery’s board since November last year, said: “The National Gallery houses the greatest collection of paintings – not just in the UK – but the world. It is a hugely important cultural asset for the country and for the many people who visit from across the globe.

“I am proud to take on the role of its chair. The National Gallery isn’t just about serving those who already love art, but reaching a wider audience and future generations.

“The National Gallery is one of our finest institutions and I look forward to working with Gabriele Finaldi, the trustees, and the wider team, to ensure its continued success.”

Philippa Childs, head of the broadcast trade union Bectu, said: “During his time as Director-General Tony Hall has been a strong advocate for the BBC, its staff and, more broadly, defending the existence of public service broadcasting and the licence fee.

“The last few years have been difficult for the Corporation, not least since the last Charter renewal when the BBC were pressurised into taking on responsibility for policy around free TV licences for over-75s.

“Bectu has had an extremely positive and productive working relationship with Tony Hall, who we’ve always found has acted with integrity and transparency even when dealing with high-profile issues that the BBC has faced on equal pay and diversity.

“He has been a supporter of constructive and effective employee relations and a beacon for training and apprenticeships that have benefited the whole industry.

​”We look forward to working with his successor, who we hope understands the importance of standing up for the values of the BBC in an ever-changing media landscape.”

National Gallery interim chair Sir John Kingman said: “Tony Hall brings a unique breadth and depth of experience across the arts, the media and digital technologies, as well as a personal track record of successful leadership of two exceptional national institutions. The trustees are thrilled that he will be the next chair of the gallery.”