Gus Casely-Hayford

Dr Gus Casely-Hayford serves as Professor of Practice in both the Department of History of Art and Archaeology and School of Arts at SOAS University of London. He is additionally the inaugural Director of V&A East, appointed in March 2020. His academic profile combines scholarly work with significant leadership in major cultural institutions across the UK.

His research expertise spans cultural history with particular emphasis on African, Asian, and Middle Eastern art and heritage. Casely-Hayford bridges academic scholarship with public engagement through broadcasting, curation, and museum leadership, having presented numerous series for Sky, BBC radio and television on cultural topics. His work focuses on making global cultural heritage accessible to wider audiences through innovative museum practices and academic frameworks.

• OBE (2018)
• Honorary Fellowship from SOAS
• Cultural Fellow of King's College London
• Fellow of Jesus College, Cambridge

Casely-Hayford has provided strategic guidance to numerous cultural organizations and governmental bodies. He previously served as Executive Director of Arts Strategy at Arts Council England and Director of the Institute of International Contemporary Art. He has advised the United Nations and multiple national arts councils while serving on boards including the National Trust, National Portrait Gallery, and Creative Industries Federation. His 2005 organization of over 1,000 Africa-related exhibitions and events across 150 British institutions represents one of his most significant public cultural initiatives.