Former National Museums Scotland director Sir Mark Jones appointed as new British Museum boss amid theft scandal

​Sir Mark Jones vowed to "restore the reputation" of the British Museum after his appointment as interim director was confirmed following approval by the UK Government in the wake of a theft scandal.

Former chancellor George Osborne, who is now chairman of the museum's trustees, confirmed the appointment of the former National Museums Scotland director, describing it as a "critical moment for the British Museum" and that he "cannot think of anyone better placed to help take us forward".

A former head of the Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A), Sir Mark takes over the role from Hartwig Fischer, who resigned on August 25 after it was revealed an estimated 2,000 artefacts had gone missing.

Sir Mark previously worked at the British Museum as an assistant keeper of coins and medals from 1974 to 1990 before going on to become the keeper for two years.

Sir Mark Jones inside the Reading Room of the British Museum in London. Picture: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

In 1992, he became director of National Museums Scotland, which saw the opening of the National Museum of Scotland and the creation of the National War Museum at Edinburgh Castle.

Sir Mark said: "I am pleased and honoured to have been offered the opportunity to work with the board and with colleagues in the museum to ensure the future security of the collections and restore the reputation of this great museum."

German art historian Fischer had previously announced in July he would be leaving next year, but last month the museum said he would step down "with immediate effect", later clarifying that he would vacate once an interim leadership arrangement was in place.

A police investigation is under way regarding the thefts.

It is understood the stolen items, which include gold jewellery, semi-precious stones and glass, were taken before 2023 and over a "significant" period of time.

Mr Fischer's deputy Jonathan Williams stepped back from his position at the same time as his boss announced his resignation.

Mr Osborne said: "This is a critical moment for the British Museum, and I cannot think of anyone better placed to help take us forward than Sir Mark Jones. His experience, grip and deep knowledge are exactly what's needed, and I very much look forward to working together."

Sir Mark had left his position with National Museums Scotland in 2001 to become director of the V&A, which underwent a £120 million renewal programme during his tenure.

He has also been master of St Cross College, Oxford, from 2011 to 2016 and established an independent bookshop in Edinburgh, the Golden Hare, in 2012.

Sir Mark is also chairman of the Pilgrim Trust, the National Trust for Scotland, and arts and crafts country house Hospitalfield.

No arrests have been made in relation to thefts from the museum.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed last month that a man had been interviewed under caution on August 23.