Syndicate and supporters

Today the Fitzwilliam Museum cares for a vast and varied collection of objects, ranging from ancient Egyptian, Greek and Roman antiquities to the arts of the present day. It has one of the finest collections of paintings, drawings and prints in Britain, significant collections of Asian art, medieval illuminated manuscripts, and outstanding collections of applied arts, pottery, porcelain and medieval coins.

It is a UK leader in fine-art conservation, and its Hamilton Kerr Institute is one of the world’s foremost centres for teaching in the conservation of easel paintings.

Our Staff and Departments work together to achieve our vision and mission.

Governance

The Fitzwilliam is a Non‐School Institution of the University, overseen by the University’s General Board and governed by the Fitzwilliam Museum Syndicate, a General Board committee.

The Fitzwilliam Museum Syndicate

Local governance is undertaken by the Syndicate of the Fitzwilliam Museum.

As of January 2025 the Syndics are:

• Sir Richard Heaton KCB (Chair)

• Dr Carol Atack

• Dr Nicolas Bell

• Dr Norman Fraser

• Dr David Saunders

• Professor Sujit Sivasundaram

• Will Dawkins

• Dr Diarmuid O’Brien

• Professor Alex Marr

• Professor Dame Diane Coyle

• The Countess of Derby

• Mr Luke Syson (Secretary)

Supporters of the Fitzwilliam Museum

The Fitzwilliam Museum and its work are supported by numerous private donors, sponsors, public bodies and trusts and foundations. Its key supporters are:

• The University of Cambridge
• Cambridge City Council
• The Arts Council
• HEFCE (Higher Education Funding Council for England)

The Museum is also supported by its patrons, the Marlay Group, and by the Friends of the Fitzwilliam.

The Fitzwilliam pursues a vigorous acquisitions policy to help hold the nation’s treasures in trust. The Museum gratefully acknowledges the assistance of the Art Fund as a major supporter of acquisitions, and HM Treasury for the Acceptance in Lieu scheme.