The Philadelphia Art Museum has announced the appointment of Daniel Weiss as its new Chief Executive Officer, following the sudden termination of former CEO Sasha Suda earlier this month. Weiss, who brings extensive experience in the art and museum world, will assume his role on December 1 and is expected to guide the institution through at least 2028.
Weiss comes to Philadelphia with an impressive background in museum leadership, having served as president and CEO of The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City for eight years, from 2015 until 2023. His decades of experience in the art and museum sector position him to provide the stability and leadership the Philadelphia Art Museum needs during this transitional period.
The museum board emphasized that Weiss's appointment will provide much-needed stability for staff, stakeholders, and the broader community. In a statement following his appointment, Weiss expressed his enthusiasm for the role, saying, "The Philadelphia Art Museum is one of America's great cultural treasures, with an extraordinary collection, a dedicated staff, and deep connections to its community. It is a privilege and an honor to serve during this important moment."
The leadership change comes after the museum's board made the abrupt decision to oust Sasha Suda at the beginning of November. Suda's termination was unexpected and has raised questions within the cultural community about the circumstances surrounding her departure. The museum has not provided detailed explanations for the sudden change in leadership.
The Philadelphia Art Museum, renowned for its impressive collection and iconic steps made famous by the "Rocky" films, is considered one of the premier cultural institutions in the United States. The museum houses significant works spanning thousands of years and attracts visitors from around the world. Weiss's appointment represents the board's commitment to maintaining the institution's prestigious reputation and continuing its mission to serve the community.
