The Royal Society of Literature (RSL) is pleased to announce that it has appointed a new Director. Laura Greenfield will take up the role in the summer, joining the RSL from Cambridge University Library. 

‘The Royal Society of Literature has celebrated extraordinary writers for two centuries, and it is an absolute privilege to take this organisation forward as the new Director,’ she says. ‘As a lifelong reader, books have transformed my perspective on the world, and I share the RSL’s conviction that literature matters. I am so looking forward to working with the incredible community of Fellows, the Council, the President and my new colleagues.’ 

Laura has more than twenty years’ experience in the cultural sector. She spent over a decade at Cambridge University Library, most recently as Director of Services and Engagement, leading exhibitions and public programmes, reader and visitor services, and communications. She previously worked at organisations including Arvon, London International Festival of Theatre and Clean Break, primarily in fundraising roles. She was a 2021 Clore Fellow and studied Philosophy at the University of Cambridge and Charity Management at London South Bank University. 

‘On behalf of the RSL’s Council and staff, I am delighted to welcome Laura as our new Director,’ says Ruth Scurr, chair of the RSL Council (board of trustees). ‘I would like to thank warmly our professional recruitment consultant and panel, which included five Trustees and an external member who is an RSL Honorary Fellow. I am very much looking forward to working with Laura as she leads the RSL into the next chapter of its distinguished history.’