The Trustees of the National Gallery are delighted to announce that Hannah Rothschild has been appointed by them as Chair of the Board.

Hannah Rothschild will take over as Chair from Mark Getty, who will step down from the role when his current term comes to an end on 10 August 2015.

Hannah Rothschild, a writer and filmmaker, has served on the Gallery’s Board since March 2009. She will be the first woman Chair of the National Gallery.

Speaking on her appointment, Hannah said “From a very young age, the National Gallery has been a source of inspiration and solace. It is a great honour to be elected as its Chair to succeed Mark Getty in August 2015 and to work with fellow trustees to ensure that the collection is protected, that general admission remains free and that the National Gallery’s exhibition, education, science, academic and conservation programmes continue to be internationally respected and challenging.”

Mark Getty said “Hannah Rothschild has been an outstanding Board member for more than 5 years and I am delighted that she is to succeed me as Chair. With her passion for and commitment to the National Gallery, she will work alongside the next Director to provide the leadership the Gallery needs in the years ahead.”

National Gallery Director, Dr Nicholas Penny said “Hannah Rothschild has defended the National Gallery interests and supported its ambitions with energy and imagination. She will be an exceptionally committed Chair.”

Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Sajid Javid said “The National Gallery is one of this country’s most important and well-loved museums and galleries - a cultural success story with visitor numbers at unprecedented levels of over six million a year. So I welcome Hannah Rothschild's appointment as their next Chair. Her experience of the gallery will build on the successes achieved under the chairmanship of Mark Getty.  I am confident that the National Gallery's development as a home of artistic, educational and research excellence will continue.”

Hannah Rothschild’s first term as Chair will last until March 2017 when she will be eligible to serve a further term, subject to the Prime Minister’s consideration at the appropriate time of any reappointment as a trustee.