Director at the National Portrait Gallery

The Organisation 

The National Portrait Gallery (NPG) faced a pivotal leadership challenge following the completion of  the most ambitious redevelopment in its history – the Inspiring People project. This initiative, which closed the Gallery from 2020 to 2023, involved a complete re-presentation of the Collection, a full refurbishment of the building, a new public entrance, and the creation of a state-of-the-art Learning Centre. 

The Role 

Following the departure of Dr Nicholas Cullinan, who joined the British Museum, the National Portrait Gallery sought a new Director, who could not only uphold the Gallery’s heritage and cultural legacy and navigate the post-COVID arts landscape.  

The brief was clear: find a cultural leader with a strong commercial sensibility and passion for the arts – someone capable of engaging audiences, driving revenue, and leading with vision in a rapidly evolving sector. 

The Search 

The search was global and extensive. The result was a longlist of such exceptional calibre that the board expanded the usual cap of candidates. Victoria Siddall was appointed in August 2024, and became the first female Director in the National Portrait Gallery’s 168-year history. 

Victoria brought a fresh and dynamic perspective. After earning a degree in English and Philosophy from the University of Bristol, she began her career at Christie’s before joining Frieze in 2004. Over two decades, she rose to become Global Director, launching Frieze Masters, Frieze LA, and Frieze Seoul, and overseeing all international art fair operations. 

She also brought a strong commitment to sustainability. Siddall co-founded the Gallery Climate Coalition and Murmur, initiatives aimed at reducing the environmental impact of the arts. Her leadership style is collaborative, forward-thinking, and rooted in a belief in the power of culture to inspire change. 

The Client 

“William and his team approached our brief with exceptional rigour, insight, and sensitivity to the Gallery’s needs.

The search was extremely thorough and delivered a shortlist of outstanding calibre. We were particularly impressed by the breadth and depth of talent presented, which is a testament to William’s deep understanding of the sector and his ability to engage candidates of the highest quality.

The appointment of Victoria marks an exciting new chapter for the Gallery. Her leadership, vision, and commercial acumen are already making a positive impact, and we are confident she will continue to shape the Gallery’s future with distinction.

I would not hesitate to work with William again and highly recommend him to any organisation seeking transformative leadership.”

David Ross 

Chair 

The National Portrait Gallery