Association of Independent Museums selects new chair

RHIANNON GODDARD is to become chair of the Association of Independent Museums (AIM), succeeding ANDREW LOVETT, who will step down step down in January after six years in post. 

Goddard worked in education at organisations including Somerset House Trust and the Gilbert Collection, before joining Historic Royal Palaces as head of public engagement projects and business management.

She said: “I’m delighted to have the opportunity to lead AIM in its mission to support and advocate for independent museums across the UK and to give back to the sector which has provided me with such a rewarding career.

“Independent museums are the lifeblood of the museums sector, and I am continually delighted and inspired by the work they do.”

Lovett added, “I am so pleased that the leadership strengths and quality of Rhiannon shone through to be appointed as the next and first woman to chair the Association of Independent Museums.

“Rhiannon brings bags of experience, empathy with the cause and philosophy of independent museums and personal integrity.

“Few understand the challenges and opportunities of independent museums like Rhiannon. It’s a fabulous appointment, and I know Rhiannon will have the full support of the board and enormous goodwill from our membership.”