Terry Quinn joined the BIPM as physicien chercheur principal on 1 September 1977, to take up the position of Deputy Director on 1 January 1978.

He became Director on 1 August 1988, on the retirement of Prof. Giacomo.

He retired on 31 December 2003, and Prof. Wallard took up the post of Director on 1 January 2004.

Andrew Wallard joined the BIPM as Director Designate on 1 March 2002 and took over as Director on 1 January 2004 on the retirement of Dr Quinn.

He retired on 31 December 2010, and Prof. Kühne took up the post of Director on 1 January 2011.