The Association of Independent Museums (AIM) has named Emma Chaplin as its new director – starting February 2018.

An AIM Council member from 2003 to 2014, Chaplin has worked as a museum consultant since 2009, collaborating with museum and heritage organisations to help them grow, develop and achieve their potential.

She has also worked with Arts Council England (ACE), the Welsh Government and museum development teams in England.

“AIM has been a beacon of advice, knowledge and inspiration for me throughout my career,” said Chaplin.

“I relish the opportunity to build on its success of recent years as it embarks on an ambitious new chapter.”

Chaplin replaces current director Tamalie Newbery, who leaves in December after more than four years in the role. During the transition period, AIM’s staff will take up management of the association’s network.

“We had an astonishingly strong field of applicants for the role,” said AIM chair, Richard Evans.

“Emma demonstrated her strong experience with an understanding of independent museums, as well as her commitment to continuing AIM’s work in partnership with other organisations across the UK, to support independent museums and help them to thrive and prosper.”