LEONIE Bell has been unveiled as the new director of the renowned V&A Dundee to lead its “awakening” from lockdown into a new era.

Bell said the attraction is an “emblem” of the city’s heritage and culture and was “honoured” to be appointed.

She takes over from founding director Philip Long, who left the design museum to become chief executive of the National Trust for Scotland.

Bell is currently strategic lead for the Future Paisley Partnership at Renfrewshire Council, heading its cultural regeneration plans following its UK City of Culture bid.

Her previous roles include programme director at The Lighthouse in Glasgow, as well as head of culture strategy and engagement at the Scottish Government and director of arts and engagement at Creative Scotland.

Bell said: “I am delighted and honoured to have been appointed director of V&A Dundee. I am looking forward to working with the board, the team, the museum’s partners and the people of Dundee to further establish V&A Dundee as a world-class design museum for Scotland.

“Like so many, I have watched V&A Dundee flourish in its first two years and it is a huge privilege to lead the museum into its next phase.

“V&A Dundee is an emblem of the city’s design and industrial heritage and a bright beacon for its future. The spectacular building is situated on one of the most beautiful estuaries and in one of UK’s most ambitious and creative cities.

“The museum celebrates the designed world and through its programme it enriches and inspires, drawing people in and reaching out across Dundee, Scotland and the world. Its role now is greater than ever. The way we live, work, gather, communicate, share, learn and play is changing.”

Tim Allan, chair of V&A Dundee’s board, said: “We are delighted that Leonie has accepted this leading role at V&A Dundee, leading its awakening from the Covid-19 lockdown into a new era.

“She is a charismatic leader with a passionate background in design and what it can do for communities.”