France on Wednesday, Feb 25, named Christophe Leribault as the new president of the Louvre, turning to the current head of the Palace of Versailles to restore confidence in the world’s most-visited museum after a damaging jewellery theft and months of staff unrest. Leribault will replace Laurence des Cars, who stepped down Tuesday, according to government spokesperson Maud Bregeon. Des Cars had come under heavy criticism after burglars stole jewels valued at about US$102 million in October — pieces that remain unrecovered — revealing serious security weaknesses.

In a statement announcing President Emmanuel Macron’s decision, the Culture Ministry said Leribault’s immediate focus would be improving security for the building, its collections and visitors, rebuilding trust, and pushing forward necessary reforms in collaboration with staff. The 62-year-old specialist in 18th-century art previously directed Musee dOrsay and the Orangerie before assuming leadership at Versailles in 2024. He earlier served as deputy director of the Louvre’s graphic arts department between 2006 and 2012.

Beyond the theft, the Louvre has faced repeated strike actions since mid-December over wages and working conditions. Additional controversies — including water leaks and an investigation into ticket fraud that allegedly diverted over €10 million over ten years — have further damaged its reputation. A state audit last year advised the museum, home to Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, to shift spending away from acquisitions and toward long-delayed security and infrastructure upgrades.

During his first year at Versailles, which hosted equestrian events for the Olympics, Leribault helped secure nearly €8 million in private donations, according to a government report. Speaking to a parliamentary inquiry on museum security last week, he said Versailles had intensified monitoring under his leadership, incorporating advanced technology while addressing emerging risks such as drone incursions and cyber threats.

Labor unions welcomed his appointment, praising his collaborative approach. Alexis Fritche, head of the CFDT-Culture union, said the incoming director must engage closely with the Louvre’s 2,200 employees and ensure funding for renovations and security enhancements. “What was missing under the previous leadership was a clear direction,” Fritche said. “We have high expectations for him.”

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.