Dr Gaimster is currently the Chief Executive of the Auckland Museum and has overseen its most recent programme of transformation, including securing the largest research grant ever awarded to a museum in New Zealand. He has significant international experience in heritage leadership roles, including Chief Executive of the Society of Antiquities of London, Director of The Hunterian at the University of Glasgow and senior roles at the British Museum. He was awarded a doctorate in Historical Archaeology from University College London and is an elected Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh.

Mr Kim Cheater, Chair of the Museum, said “the Board is delighted to have secured someone of David’s immense experience and talent to lead the South Australian Museum into the future. The Museum is a fundamental part of the cultural and scientific fabric of our State, and we have ambitious plans to ensure its relevance and value for generations to come. David has a proven ability to lead the rejuvenation and transformation of natural science and human culture museums. He brings energy, a bold vision and a track record in driving innovation which will be exciting and refreshing.”

Dr Gaimster said “I am excited to be invited to lead the South Australian Museum, one of the premier encyclopedic museums of natural history and human cultures in Australasia. I hope to bring my commitment to innovation and my experience of leading institutions with long and distinguished records of collecting, research and public engagement to the critical next stage of the Museum’s development. I am looking forward to working with my new colleagues to deliver the Museum’s ambition for creating unique experiences, enhancing knowledge and stimulating new ideas and debate, onsite, offsite and online.”

The Hon Andrea Michaels, MP, Minister for the Arts, added “congratulations to Dr Gaimster on being appointed Director of the South Australian Museum. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role having worked in leadership roles in major museums all over the world. I’m looking forward to seeing the expertise and innovation he brings to our Museum.”

Dr Gaimster is moving to Adelaide with his family and is expected to commence his role in June of this year. Until then, Justine van Mourik will continue as Acting Director and the Board expresses their appreciation of her leadership of the Museum during this time of transition.