Eike Schmidt leaves Uffizi for Kunsthistorisches Museum Vienna

Eike Schmidt, director of the Uffizi Galleries in Florence, will step down at the end of his mandate in 2020 to become director of the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna, succeeding Sabine Haag. The announcement was made by Austrian Culture Minister Thomas Drozda. Schmidt, appointed as one of the 20 super-directors under Dario Franceschini, has led the Uffizi since November 2015. His tenure saw successes but also controversies, including a fine for unauthorized audio announcements and the legal challenge to foreign directors. Architect Stefano Boeri expressed disappointment on Facebook, calling the departure a bad sign for Italy. Schmidt defended his move, stating it reflects recognition of his work and the Franceschini reform. The Kunsthistorisches Museum oversees multiple collections and museums in Vienna, including the Weltmuseum and the Imperial Treasury. There were 15 applicants for the position, including 10 Austrians and 5 foreigners. Schmidt's contract is for five years, renewable.