Frances Morris appointed as director of Tate Modern

Morris will become the fourth director of Tate Modern in its 16-year history, succeeding Lars Nittve, Vicente Todoli and Chris Dercon.

She joined Tate as a curator in 1987, becoming head of displays at Tate Modern (2000-2006) and then director of collection, international art.

Recently she curated three major retrospectives of women artists including Louise Bourgeois in 2007, Yayoi Kusama in 2012 and Agnes Martin in 2015.

"Tate Modern is a truly unique institution and I have been privileged to have been part of the team from the very beginning," said Frances Morris.

"An incredible collection, amazing artists, extraordinary colleagues across Tate, brilliant supporters and wave upon wave of appreciative visitors have given me many creative opportunities and memorable experiences.

"I am thrilled and excited to be appointed as director and look forward to taking on this new role at such an exciting time for the museum."

Tate director Sir Nicholas Serota said: "Frances Morris is an innovative thinker who has shaped and developed Tate's international collection, firmly establishing Tate Modern as one of the foremost contemporary and modern art galleries in the world.

"She is widely respected internationally for her flair, expertise and clarity of vision. She will lead the new Tate Modern into the next era."

The extended Tate Modern building is due to open in June this year.