Just in: Barbican hires BBC seat-warmer

The Barbican Centre has appointed Will Gompertz, the BBC’s barely visible arts editor, to the new post of Director of Arts and Learning.

This will place Gompertz. 55, in pole position to succeed Nick Kenyon, 70, as head of the Centre.

The news will be welcomed by the BBC as a saving on a wholly redundant position.

Gompertz says: I am absolutely delighted to be joining the Barbican as its Director of Arts and Learning after eleven very happy years as the BBC’s Arts Editor. I look forward to leading the superb art form and creative learning teams, at this hugely significant time for both the institution and the broad audiences it serves. As we all adjust to the major cultural, ecological, scientific, technological and political changes that are defining the early decades of the 21^st century, the arts in general, and the Barbican in particular, have a vital role in helping shape our future, providing an inclusive platform for discovery and discussion, and a diverse environment for ideas and exchange. I am greatly looking forward to playing a part in the next chapter of the Barbican’s life as one of the world’s leading arts centres.