Jessica Morgan has been confirmed as the new director of Tate, marking her return to the arts organisation where she worked as a curator for more than a decade. She takes the helm at a critical juncture in Tate's history, accepting a significantly lower salary to lead the institution.
Jessica Morgan's Return to Tate
Morgan, the clear frontrunner to replace Maria Balshaw, who left this spring after nine years, is currently based in New York. She has led the Dia Art Foundation since 2015, transforming it into a globally recognized contemporary art powerhouse. According to Dia's tax filings, Morgan earned $814,000 in 2025 (over £600,000) – substantially more than the £220,000–£225,000 Balshaw earned at Tate.
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The Financial Sacrifice: A Big Pay Cut
Tate's chair, Roland Rudd, confirmed that Morgan is taking a “very big pay cut” to accept the position. He noted that he paid her the most possible “under the constrictions he faced.” Despite the reduction, Morgan remains committed to the role, citing the institution's global significance.
Challenges Ahead for Tate
The organisation is bruised after a difficult few years. Finances were hit hard during the pandemic, leading to redundancies and restructuring. “Culture war” battles have left staff morale, according to one senior staffer, “on the floor.” Visitor numbers remain volatile, and Morgan will need to address these issues while maintaining Tate's artistic excellence.
| Role | Salary (2025) |
|---|---|
| Jessica Morgan at Dia Art Foundation | $814,000 |
| Maria Balshaw at Tate (previous director) | £220,000–£225,000 |
Morgan's Vision for the Future
Described as an “agent of change” by Tate, Morgan is expected to question many existing practices. Rudd told the Guardian that “she’s an agent of change, but she takes people with her.” At Dia, she transformed the museum while carrying the team along – a style he admires. Morgan said it is an immense privilege to take over at Tate, which she calls the “world’s foremost institution for international modern and contemporary art and for British art.”
Her time as curator at Tate “deeply informed” her work at Dia, where she placed artists and the public at the centre of everything. She looks forward to “this pivotal next stage at Tate” and advancing the work of Tate’s committed and talented team.
Key Takeaways
- Jessica Morgan returns to Tate as director after a decade away, taking a major pay cut from her Dia role.
- Tate faces financial strain, low staff morale, and fluctuating visitor numbers.
- Morgan is known as a collaborative change agent who transformed Dia Art Foundation.
- Her salary at Dia was over $800,000; at Tate she will earn around £220,000–£225,000.
- She plans to focus on artists and the public, building on Tate's legacy.
FAQ
Why did Jessica Morgan accept a pay cut to become Tate director?
Morgan accepted the role because she considers Tate the world’s foremost institution for modern and contemporary art. Despite the lower salary, the opportunity to lead and transform Tate during a critical period was a compelling draw.
What challenges does the new Tate director face?
Morgan inherits an organisation with strained finances post-pandemic, low staff morale after redundancies and restructuring, and fluctuating visitor numbers. She must also navigate ongoing “culture war” debates while maintaining artistic integrity.
How does Morgan's experience at Dia Art Foundation prepare her for Tate?
At Dia, Morgan transformed the museum into a globally recognized contemporary art destination while fostering a collaborative culture. Her ability to drive change while carrying staff with her is expected to serve her well at Tate.
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