NEWS: New Chair

The Contemporary Art Society is delighted to welcome Robert Suss as new chair to the board of trustees.

Robert joins CAS as our new Chair of the Board of Trustees with a wealth of experience, a deep passion for art and its significance in society, and, importantly, how people access art. This passion extends beyond Robert's philanthropic efforts - most recently as Vice Chair of The Royal Academy Trust -  since he has supported emerging artists and collected contemporary art across developing and developed markets for over thirty years. 

Commenting on his new role, Robert shared –

"I am thrilled to take on my new role as Chairman of the Board of Trustees, joining the team and its mission to bring 'Great Art to Great Places' in this our 114th year. Since CAS was founded in 1910, it has gifted over 11,000 artworks to institutions serving communities, both metropolitan and regional, throughout the UK and abroad, which is an extraordinary achievement. 

Now, perhaps more than ever, we recognise the profound significance of art in our lives. Art serves as a vital link to our shared histories and cultures, sparks creativity, and offers a respite from the bombardment of commercial imagery. To echo Picasso's famous words, "art washes from the soul the dust of everyday life."

CAS holds a unique position in the art world, with the ability to spotlight and support contemporary and emerging talent, ensuring people from all walks of life and across every generation have access to some of the most exciting talent in the contemporary art scene today.

I look forward to collaborating with our Director, the dedicated CAS team, our board of trustees, artists, galleries, and our community. Together, we will amplify our mission to bring 'great art to great places' in 2024 and beyond."

Robert is an Emeritus Trustee of the Royal Academy of the Arts Trust, where he was previously Deputy Chair of the Trust, Trustee and Chair of the Royal Academy Schools Dinner and Auction.  Robert is currently CEO of Pictet Wealth Management in the UK, having spent almost 20 years at Goldman Sachs, most recently as Managing Director and Head of Private Wealth Management in London. In addition, Robert has built several businesses in finance, technology and renewable energy.