Engaging our Audiences: Announcing a new addition to the ROM Executive Team

Posted: September 25, 2013 - 16:17 , by royal

On September 17, Janet Carding, Director & CEO of the Royal Ontario Museum, announced some important news. Following an extensive international search, the Museum has hired its first-ever Deputy Director, Engagement: Dr. Xerxes Mazda will be joining the ROM early in November.

As part of our long-term growth and development strategy, the ROM has committed to better serving our audiences’ evolving interests and expectations. “Xerxes, in his role of Deputy Director, Engagement,” says Carding, “will be absolutely crucial to the implementation of the ROM’s plans as we work to reinvent the encyclopaedic museum for the 21st century.” He will be responsible for all facets of the visitor experience, including permanent galleries, online presence, exhibitions, learning, frontline staff, publications, branding and marketing.

Dr. Mazda comes to the ROM from the British Museum, one of the world's pre-eminent museums, where he was Head of Learning, Volunteers, and Audiences. He was a key member of the team under the leadership of Neil MacGregor that redeveloped many galleries, created a series of record-breaking exhibitions, established the world’s first Wikipedian-in-residence, and revitalized the role of the British Museum across the UK through touring exhibitions and partnerships. Prior to his eight years at the British Museum, Dr. Mazda worked at the Science Museum in London for 13 years, where he played many roles, culminating as Head of Collections Access. He holds a PhD in Organic Chemistry from Cambridge University.

The timing of Dr. Mazda’s arrival at the ROM is ideal. He is bringing his renowned expertise to the Royal Ontario Museum as we further our work of enhancing audience engagement, complete the planning for ROM 100 Centennial celebrations in 2014, and prepare for a bold new future.

To learn more about the ROM's executive team and boards, see our web page devoted to ROM Leadership.