I think you all know that Jim Cuno is leaving us in August to take up a position as Director of the Art Institute of Chicago. This is one of the most important jobs in the international museum world and it is a huge accolade for Jim. He goes there with our congratulations and also with our many thanks for all he has put in place in the fifteen months since he joined us. Jim has given a clear forward momentum to the Courtauld Institute since our independence was achieved. I know that the whole faculty and staff join me in wishing him well for the future and my own sympathy goes to them for the renewed uncertainty that this interregnum brings.

Clearly identifying and appointing the new director is at the top of our priority list. Neil MacGregor has kindly agreed to chair the Search Committee and the task is already in hand. Advertisements have been published and interviews will take place during May.

We will keep you in touch.

Nicholas Ferguson
Chairman