The International Advisory Board was set up in 1994 through the joint efforts of the State Hermitage and UNESCO. Representatives of the foremost institutions of culture and art have become members. Drawing on their long and varied experience of management and work in such institutions, the members of the council support the management of the State Hermitage in devising and implementing development strategies that are of a world standard. The Council meets annually and the agenda for the meeting is set by the Director of the State Hermitage. Between meetings the Director consults members of the Council when their assistance may prove helpful. The International Advisory Board is chaired by Neil MacGregor, Director of the British Museum (London)