The Prime Minister has confirmed the reappointment of Professor Rosalind Polly Blakesley as a Trustee of the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A), effective for a new four-year period. Her extended term will begin on 5 September 2026 and conclude on 4 September 2030, ensuring her continued input into one of the UK's leading cultural institutions.
Professor Blakesley, who has served on the V&A's board previously, brings a wealth of academic and curatorial experience to the role. She currently holds the position of Master of Pembroke College, Cambridge, a post she has occupied since October 2025. Her academic career at the University of Cambridge spans over two decades, where she has been Professor of Russian and European Art since 2018. Her distinguished background includes an expertise in the visual culture of imperial Russia and Northern Europe, evidenced by her numerous prize-winning books and exhibition curations across Britain, Russia, and the USA.
Her extensive involvement in the cultural sector extends beyond her academic work. Professor Blakesley has previously served on the boards of prominent institutions such as the National Portrait Gallery, the Fitzwilliam Museum, the Hamilton Kerr Institute, and Kettle’s Yard. She is also a current Trustee of the Samuel Courtauld Trust, demonstrating a deep understanding of museum governance and strategy. At the V&A, she chairs the critical V&A Research Committee, aligning her distinctive research expertise with the museum's vast collection.
The reappointment process was conducted in accordance with the Cabinet Office’s Governance Code on Public Appointments, with regulation by the Commissioner for Public Appointments. Trustees of the Victoria and Albert Museum serve in an unremunerated capacity, reflecting a commitment to public service. Professor Blakesley has declared no significant political activity over the last five years, as required under the Code.
The V&A plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting art, design, and performance, contributing significantly to the UK's cultural landscape and international reputation. The continued presence of experienced trustees like Professor Blakesley is vital for the museum's strategic direction, collection development, and public engagement, ensuring it remains a world-class institution for future generations.
This reappointment underscores the Government's continued commitment to drawing on expert knowledge for the oversight of national cultural bodies. Cultural organisations like the V&A contribute to the UK's soft power and attract millions of visitors, bolstering the tourism economy and enriching public life.
Source: Prime Minister's Office