The Kiran Nadar Museum of Art (KNMA) has appointed Manuel Rabaté as its new Chief Executive Officer and Director. This appointment is a strategic move to strengthen the leadership role that marks the beginning of a transformative phase for one of South Asia’s foremost cultural institutions.

With over 25 years of international museum leadership experience, most recently serving as Director of the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Arab world’s first universal museum, where he shaped the institution into a globally influential cultural landmark celebrated for its ambitious exhibitions, expanding permanent collection, and strong focus on education and engagement. He also served as Deputy Director of Cultural Development at Musée du quai Branly – Jacques Chirac and Deputy Director of the Auditorium at Musée du Louvre.

Over the course of his professional career, he has also held senior roles at Agence France-Muséums, where he served as Chief Financial Officer, General Secretary and Chief Executive Officer, underpinning his deep expertise in museum strategy, curatorial leadership, and cultural management.

He holds his academic qualifications from Sciences Po and HEC Paris. In his new role, he will be responsible for steering the institution’s next phase of growth, particularly as it prepares for the launch of its forthcoming purpose-built campus in New Delhi, envisioned to be South Asia’s largest interdisciplinary cultural centre for visual and performing arts.