The British Library has appointed Rebecca Lawrence as its new Chief Executive, effective January 2, 2025. Lawrence will succeed Sir Roly Keating, who has led the library since 2012 and will step down at the end of this year.
With a distinguished career spanning public service and university leadership, Lawrence has brought innovation to high-profile institutions. She served as Chief Executive of the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) from 2019 to 2023, where she spearheaded digital transformation and guided the organization through the challenges of the pandemic. Previously, she was the first CEO of the Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC) and led national initiatives in police technology and digital security.
Lawrence began her career in HM Treasury before advancing to senior roles in the Home Office, focusing on counter-terrorism and policing strategy. In addition to her executive roles, she currently chairs the Governors at Middlesex University and serves as a Commissioner at the National Preparedness Commission (NPC).
As she steps into her role at the British Library, Lawrence brings a wealth of experience in strategic innovation, digital transformation, and public service leadership, promising a dynamic future for one of the UK's most iconic cultural institutions.
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