After five years at the helm, the Chief Executive Officer of Dundee Science Centre is to retire, presenting an opportunity to shape the future of the visitor attraction.
Dr Isabel Bruce OBE, who has dedicated much of her working life to the public and third sector, will retire later this Autumn.
Chair Paul Clancy said, “It has been a privilege to work alongside Isabel who leaves Dundee Science Centre in perhaps the strongest position we have ever been in.
“We have strong links with the educational community, business partners and local communities and are attracting visitors from across the country.
“We have created, under Isabel’s leadership, a welcoming, inclusive environment where everyone can feel a part of what we trying to achieve as a Centre.
“I am particularly proud of what we have done to support young children and families really getting an early feel for what a love of science will contribute to their education and their lives in general. Isabel has been a fundamental part in this success”.
“She will be an extremely hard act to follow but I believe, due to the Science Centre’s reputation and the upward trajectory of our city, this position will be an extremely attractive one.
“With a brand-new three-year business strategy to be developed in the Spring of 2025, this is an exciting opportunity for someone to make their mark and take this fantastic local and national asset to the next stage in its journey”.
Led by a Board of Directors and a small, experienced Executive team, the Science Centre employs around 40 staff and generates an annual income of around £1.5M through visitor revenue, grant funding and partnership work.
Isabel has successfully overseen the growth of Dundee Science Centre which, through in-Centre activities, community engagement, festivals and online engagement, now engages with around 250,000 people each year compared to 70,000 five years ago.
Dr Bruce said, “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Science Centre. While the pandemic presented many challenges, working with the team, I leave the Centre, with its accessible and immersive exhibitions and STEM activities, in a strong and stable position, with a fantastic culture that supports our diverse audiences.”
While also retiring from her position as Chair of Dundee Tourism Leadership Group, Dr Bruce will retain her position as Chair of The David Livingstone Trust and continue her 20 years of charitable work in Malawi.
