Caroline Dromaguet Named CEO of Canadian Museum of History

Expand

Caroline Dromaguet (courtesy LinkedIn)

Caroline Dromaguet, a seasoned museum professional, has been named as CEO of the Canadian Museum of History.

Dromaguet, who was serving as the museum's interim CEO, has more than 20 years of experience in various aspects of museum work, the museum said in a statement Monday.

The previous CEO, Mark O'Neill, who was at the centre of an investigation into workplace harassment, resigned two months before his official retirement date in 2021.

The Canadian Museum of History operates the Canadian War Museum and the Virtual Museum of New France, centres for research and public information about Canadian history. A spokesman said a permanent vice-president who serves as director general of the war museum will need to hired.

Dromaguet said she looks forward to sharing her vision for "new strategic directions" in innovation, technology, engagement and Indigenous rights.

"I will soon be launching new values for our museums, which represent a tangible commitment to the museums' people, first and foremost, but also a commitment to all Canadians who entrust us to keep our collective and diverse history alive for future generations," she said.

The primary role of the publicly funded museums is to enhance knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the events, experiences, people and objects that have shaped Canadian history and identity.

Heritage Minister Pablo Rodriguez cited Dromaguet's "solid knowledge and experience" in museum management.

"Her steady leadership over the past two years on an interim basis will ensure the sustainability of the institution's vision, as well as continuity at this major national museum that we all take such pride in," he said.

Dromaguet's background includes museum management, the development and delivery of cultural products, and the fostering of international partnerships and initiatives.

She has worked as acting director general of the War Museum, as the director of exhibitions, the manager of exhibitions and strategic initiatives, and head of exhibition preparation over the last 20 years. She previously worked at the National Gallery of Canada and has contributed to initiatives with the Canadian Museums Association and the Virtual Museum of Canada, the predecessor to Digital Museums Canada.

Before McNeill left the Canadian Museum of History, he publicly sang the praises of Dromaguet as a future leader, noting that in addition to her skill set, she is a francophone woman. In a 2019 interview with the Ottawa online magazine Artsfile, McNeill said it is important to have "leadership that reflects new ways of thinking, in this case, a very different kind of manager and she brings experience and viewpoints that are quite different."

Caroline Beaulieu, the chair of the Canadian Museum of History's board of trustees, said Dromaguet has built a strong foundation as interim CEO.

"She has delivered substantial progress and change to our organizational culture," Beaulieu said. "Now, moving forward as our CEO, she brings a bold new vision and will deliver on new strategic directions that are inclusive and impressive."