The Art Gallery Of NSW has appointed the first female director in its 154-year history, with deputy director Maud Page stepping up to replace outgoing director Michael Brand.

Page has since 2017 been deputy director at the AGNSW and director of its collections, including its acquisition program. AGNSW chair Michael Rose told The Australian Financial Review she was the only local candidate shortlisted among several internationals interviewed, in a search conducted by advisory firm Spencer Stewart.