Glenbow has announced a significant leadership transition as Nicholas Bell, the current President and CEO, has been appointed as the next Director and CEO of the Royal Ontario Museum. This change, effective May 31, 2026, marks the end of Bell’s tenure at Glenbow, which he has led since 2019.
Under Bell’s guidance, Glenbow undertook a transformative project known as Glenbow Reimagined, a substantial investment of $205 million aimed at revitalizing the museum’s building, which has served the community for over 50 years. The renovation will culminate in the reopening of the facility as the JR Shaw Centre for Arts & Culture. Additionally, Bell helped establish the JR Shaw Free Admission Endowment, which will provide free general admission—a first for any major museum in Canada.
Bell’s strategic vision focused on enhancing Glenbow’s offerings, which included developing programming for the future, improving operational readiness, and fostering a diverse and engaged workforce. His efforts to diversify revenue streams and expand the museum’s audience have been crucial to Glenbow’s ongoing relevance in the cultural landscape.
Lori Van Rooijen, Chair of the Glenbow Board of Governors, expressed gratitude for Bell’s leadership. “The Board is deeply grateful to Nicholas for his leadership during this significant chapter in Glenbow’s history,” she stated. Van Rooijen highlighted that Bell’s appointment to the Royal Ontario Museum reflects Glenbow’s strong vision and the success of the Glenbow Reimagined initiative.
In preparation for the upcoming changes, the Board has appointed Melanie Kjorlien as the new President and CEO of Glenbow. Van Rooijen emphasized Kjorlien’s experience and steady leadership as vital for sustaining Glenbow’s progress toward reopening. “This appointment reflects the Board’s long-standing succession planning and commitment to leadership continuity,” she added.
As Glenbow moves forward, the institution aims to build on the momentum established under Bell’s leadership, ensuring that it remains a significant player in Canada’s cultural scene. The transition period is expected to be smooth, with both Bell and Kjorlien committed to maintaining the organization’s focus on community engagement and innovative public programming.
