The National Gallery of London has announced Dr Gabriele Finaldi as its new director, following the retirement of current director Dr Nicholas Penny.

Finaldi arrives with a strong educational background in the art world, having studied art history at Dulwich College and then at the Courtauld Institute of Art. Finaldi returns to the National Gallery for the second time, having previously operated as curator of Italian and Spanish paintings between 1992 and 2002.

He takes up his new role in August, having previously operated as deputy director for Collections and Research at the Museo Nacional del Prado in Madrid, a role he has held since 2002.

During his time at the Prado, Finaldi has overseen an extension in 2007 and the launch of the Prado Research Centre in 2008, as well as a complete rehang of the museum’s art collection.

“I feel deeply honoured to take on the directorship of the National Gallery after Nicholas Penny,” said Dr Finaldi. “This is a world-class collection in a world-class city and I eagerly look forward to working with the trustees and the staff to strengthen the gallery’s bond with the public and its international standing. I also look forward to developing an exciting exhibition programme and the gallery’s research and educational activities.”