Director of The Hepworth Wakefield announced as new Secretary & Chief Executive of the Royal Academy of Arts (RA), London

Wallis was appointed in 2008 as the founding Director of The Hepworth Wakefield, now one of the UK’s most acclaimed public art galleries. Arriving at a brownfield site as the first employee, working with Wakefield Council, he oversaw the delivery and opening of the £35 million David Chipperfield designed building in 2011. Wallis was awarded an OBE for services to the visual arts in 2015.

Steve Langan, Chair of The Hepworth Wakefield Trust, said:

‘On behalf of The Hepworth Wakefield board of trustees, I would like to give Simon our sincerest congratulations on such a prestigious new role. During his time in Wakefield, he has led a team who won the Art Fund Museum of the Year; grew the art collection by over £30 million through philanthropy; devised a consistently critically acclaimed exhibitions and learning programme; delivered a beautiful Tom Stuart-Smith designed garden and instigated the culture-led regeneration of Wakefield waterfront through popular fairs, markets and events for creatives. We are incredibly proud to see him go on to this next exciting chapter in his career.’

Simon Wallis said:

‘In 2008 I became the first employee of The Hepworth Wakefield. I stood in a muddy brownfield site while foundations of the superb David Chipperfield designed building were laid, visualising the future with intense excitement & no small amount of anxiety. I went from curating shows to curating a whole new organisation. The Hepworth has – so far – been the most significant and rewarding experience of my professional life.

Nothing of significance is achieved without dynamic team-work where people enjoy working closely together towards a clear common goal for the public good. I’ve been so blessed with brilliant Chairs, Trustees, colleagues, philanthropists, collaborators & stakeholders. Wakefield Council & Arts Council have been outstanding supportive partners for The Hepworth & whoever takes us to the next level has so much achievement, potential & goodwill to draw upon. At the heart of it all are artists & the life-enhancing experience of art, where all our imaginations are nurtured, developed & expanded at a time when we need it most.

I am delighted to be joining the Royal Academy as its new Secretary & Chief Executive. It’s a place I’ve loved since I was a child when my Polish grandparents often took me, & then as an art student at Chelsea School of Art, & I’ve hardly missed a show since. The RA is a wonderful & special place with a rich history & such inspiring opportunity. I’m so looking forward to making a significant contribution to its vital charitable mission.’

Wallis will take up his new role at the RA in September. Plans for the new leadership of The Hepworth Wakefield will be announced in due course.