IMG, an events, media, sports and fashion company, has announced the appointment of Nigel Hurst, former chief executive of London’s Saatchi Gallery, as director of its global exhibitions business. As part of IMG’s wider arts and entertainment group, Nigel will work with international museums and cultural institutions to identify, develop, produce and tour new exhibitions worldwide.

“Nigel is one of the industry’s most well-known and respected professionals, having spent more than three decades conceiving and curating some of the world’s most-loved exhibitions,” says Stephen Flint Wood, executive vice president and managing director, arts and entertainment events, IMG. “His unparalleled experience, relationships and knowledge will accelerate the continued growth of our exhibitions initiatives, as we embark on exciting new projects in partnership with world-leading institutions.”

Over the last 35 years, Nigel has conceived and curated numerous international exhibitions, working with institutions around the world. After a 23-year tenure running and developing the Saatchi Gallery as its chief executive officer, he became director of contemporary arts at The Box Museum in Plymouth, where he was responsible for its opening program in 2020, acquiring, commissioning and curating important art works and ambitious installations. In 2019, he co-founded the online contemporary art platform Art Gazette.

“We’ve all had a couple of tough years that have reminded us of the vital importance of shared human experience through all kinds of culture,” says Hurst. “I’m delighted to be joining IMG’s team at such a defining moment to help create, produce, support and tour high quality, inspiring exhibitions to be enjoyed and remembered worldwide.”

Nigel starts his position at IMG in November.

IMG U.K. is exhibiting at Brand Licensing Europe. Be sure to register for Brand Licensing Europe here.