The Trustees of the National History Museum have announced the appointment of UK Amazon Manager Dr Douglas Gurr as its new Director.
The move, set to happen later in the year, has been approved by the Prime Minister.
Gurr will take over from current Director Sir Michael Dixon who last year announced his intention to step down.
Gurr is Country Manager of Amazon UK and was President of Amazon China from 2014 to 2016. He was Chair of the Board of the Science Museum from 2010 to 2014.
His previous roles include teaching mathematics and computing at the University of Aarhus in Denmark.
He has also held senior roles in Government, worked as a partner at consultancy firm McKinsey, Board Director at Asda-Walmart and was founder and CEO of internet start-up Blueheath.
He is currently Chairman of the British Heart Foundation, a Trustee of the National Gallery, a Trustee of the Landmark Trust and non-executive Director of the Land Registry.
On the move, Gurr said: “The Natural History Museum’s vision of a future where people and planet thrive has never been more relevant and it is a privilege to be invited to lead this globally important cultural and scientific institution.
“I am passionate about the work the Museum is doing to tackle the planetary emergency by using its unrivalled collection and leading scientific research to connect millions of people a year with nature. I can’t wait to join the team.”
Chair of the Trustees, Lord Stephen Green, said: “Doug’s academic background, considerable experience in working with public service organisations and digital understanding make him ideal to lead our treasured Museum in our mission to create advocates for the planet.
“The Board of Trustees and I look forward to working with him at this time of challenges and opportunities for the Museum.”