Ciaron Wilkinson appointed to European Museum Forum board of trustees

Ciaron Wilkinson, Head of Partnerships and Engagement at Manchester Museum, has been appointed to the board of trustees for the European Museum Forum (EMF), organisers of the European Museum of the Year Award (EMYA).

Manchester Museum, part of The University of Manchester, was the EMYA winner in 2025 and Wilkinson replaces Sharon Heal, Director at Museums Association, as the United Kingdom’s representative and secretary of the board.

Founded in 1977, under the auspices of the Council of Europe, the EMF is one of the leading organisations in Europe for developing the public quality of museums. It organises the annual EMYA prize, as well as a three-day conference that is focused on bringing together museum professionals from across the continent to discuss and develop innovative approaches to improvement of the sector.

“It is a real privilege to join the EMF Board of Trustees, particularly following Manchester Museum's experience as European Museum of the Year,” said Ciaron. “I've seen first-hand the generosity, creativity and ambition that exists across Europe's museum community and believe strongly in the role museums have to play in bringing people together, encouraging dialogue and responding to the challenges facing our communities. I look forward to helping strengthen collaboration and shared learning across the sector.”

Amina Krvavac, EMF Chair, added: “We are delighted to welcome Ciaron to the EMF Board of Trustees. His leadership in partnerships and engagement at Manchester Museum and his dedication to fostering dialogue and connection across communities align strongly with EMF’s mission and the values of EMYA. His insight will enrich our work across Europe.”

Ciaron joined Manchester Museum in July 2024 and his work spans public programming, communications, community engagement and fundraising, all with a focus on building meaningful connections.

Before joining the museum sector, Ciaron worked in local government, at Visit Manchester and at Manchester International Festival. He also contributes to the UK culture sector more widely as a member of Arts Council England’s North Area Council.

He recently organised a major museums conference, hosted at Manchester Museum and marking the conclusion of its 12 months as European Museum of the Year. Bringing together sector professionals from across the UK, it focused on co-creation, convening and care, looking at how values-led practice can shape museums that respond to the needs of their communities and a rapidly changing world.