Mark Jones has been announced as the interim director of the British Museum by the board of trustees, the institution’s chair George Osborne has confirmed.
Jones replaces Hartwig Fischer, who stepped down in response to a scandal prompted by the recent alleged theft of around 2,000 artefacts.
He was named on Saturday (2 September) by Osborne, who said the appointment is subject to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak‘s approval.
“I am pleased to confirm that Sir Mark Jones has received the unanimous approval of the board of trustees to become the interim director of the British Museum,” said Osborne.
“Mark is one of the most experienced and respected museum leaders in the world, and he will offer the leadership and grip the museum needs right now.
“We are both clear that his priorities are to accelerate the cataloguing of the collection, improve security, and reinforce pride in the curatorial mission of the museum.
“This sits alongside the major renovation work we’re undertaking, and the partnerships we’re forging, to ensure that we build a stronger future for the museum we all love and admire.
“I promised we would learn lessons and then lay the foundations for a strong future. Mark’s appointment is a big step in that direction. I look forward to working together.”
British Museum to “learn lessons”
Jones served as the British Museum’s assistant keeper of coins and medals from 1974 to 1990, later becoming the keeper until 1992.
From 1992 until 2001, he served as National Museums Scotland’s director, before working as the V&A’s director between 2001 and 2011.
In response to the thefts, the British Museum sacked a member of staff and began an independent review of security. The Met Police’s Economic Crime Command is investigating.
Since then, countries including Wales, China, Nigeria and Greece have called for the return of artefacts including the Benin bronzes and Parthenon marbles.
