The Museums Association (MA) has named Maggie Appleton as its new president, with the RAF Museum CEO set to take up the role in April.

With more than 25 years of experience in the museums sector, Appleton started her career working at the Royal Armouries, before spending 12 years working in Luton – six as director of museums for Luton Borough Council and latterly as the chief executive of Luton Culture. From there she was named CEO of the RAF Museum, a role she has held since January 2015.

During her career, Appleton has also held a number of supplementary roles, holding the position of co-chair for the Women Leaders in Museums Network between 2015 to 2016, also acting as an East of England Committee Member for the Heritage Lottery Fund between 2010 and 2016.

In 2012, she was given an MBE for services to Museums and Heritage. At the MA, Appleton was named vice president of the association in February 2015.

“Having been a member of the MA for about 25 years, it’s an utter privilege, and I am very much looking forward to working with the fabulous MA team and all our members to build on David Fleming’s immense contribution to museums,” said Appleton.

“We continue to face unprecedented challenges and it’s more important than ever that the MA works with our partners to lead, listen and advocate with clarity, bravery and positivity.”

Outgoing president Fleming whose departure coincides with his retirement as director of National Museums Liverpool, called Appleton a “moderniser”, adding that her appointment was the “next natural step” for the MA.

“I am confident that the key relationship Maggie needs – with the director of the MA, Sharon Heal – will enable the MA to continue its upward trajectory, which is so important for the welfare of the nation,” he said. “The Association is in very good hands.”