Queensland Museum in safe hands with new CEO
Renai Grace is one of Queensland arts and cultural sectors’ highest achievers and she is the perfect fit to take the reins at Queensland Museum as Gentleman Jim Thompson steps down.
Queensland Museum has just announced the appointment of Renai Grace as its next chief executive officer, which is great news and confirms the continuing power of female leadership in arts and cultural institutions.
Rachel Healey is now QPAC boss, Louise Bezzina is in charge at Brisbane Powerhouse, Ebony Bott rules the roost at Brisbane Festival, Zoe Graham is running the Museum of Brisbane (where Grace cut her teeth) and, so it goes.
Grace will succeed Dr Jim Thompson, who will retire this month after eight years of leadership at Queensland Museum and more than four decades of distinguished public service in NSW and Queensland.
During his tenure, Dr Thompson oversaw significant growth and renewal, including the revitalisation of permanent galleries at Queensland Museum Kurilpa, major international exhibitions such as Dinosaurs of Patagonia and Discovering Ancient Egypt, and the creation of a world-class collection storage facility at Hendra.
He guided the organisation through the challenges of COVID-19, championed Queensland Museum’s inaugural First Nations Strategy and brought Queensland’s collections and research to the forefront, creating opportunities for discovery, engagement and international recognition through exhibitions and programming, most recently with the world premiere of Croc! Lost Giants to Living Legends.
Under his leadership, Queensland Museum has become Australia’s second-most visited museum network and a globally recognised cultural and scientific institution.
You might like
Grace was appointed following an extensive national and international recruitment process led by the Queensland Museum board, with support from the Orchard Talent Group.
With more than 25 years of experience in cultural leadership, Grace brings a wealth of expertise in strategic planning, creative direction, audience engagement, fostering partnerships with government and business, and leading organisational transformation.
Since her appointment as executive director, museums and engagement, at Queensland Museum in December 2022, Grace has played a pivotal role in enhancing audience experiences across the museum’s four public sites. Her achievements include leading master planning, digital and accessibility initiatives, revitalising the Queensland Museum brand, and significant growth in international partnerships, audience reach and engagement.
Previously, Grace was CEO and director for six years of the Museum of Brisbane, where she established the biannual Brisbane Art Design festival and championed several nationally awarded exhibitions. Her career spans roles at Arts Queensland, Queensland Art Gallery and the Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA), NorthSite Contemporary Arts and Artisan, highlighting her deep commitment to the cultural sector.
Queensland Museum board chair Professor Margaret Sheil says Dr Thompson’s steady and strategic leadership has strengthened Queensland Museum’s foundations, enhancing financial sustainability and deepening partnerships with First Nations communities.
Subscribe for updates
“His legacy is one of collaboration, innovation and care,” Prof Sheil says. “The board warmly welcomes Ms Grace into the role of CEO. Her experience, vision and proven ability to connect with diverse audiences will guide Queensland Museum into its next chapter—building on a proud history to create new opportunities for learning, discovery and community connection.”
State Arts Minister John-Paul Langbroek says Dr Thompson provided strong leadership of Queensland Museum and wished him the very best in his retirement.
“I acknowledge and thank Dr Thompson for his significant contribution to Queensland Museum during which time it has grown to be recognised as one of Australia’s most respected scientific and cultural institutions,” Langbroek says.
“I also congratulate incoming CEO Renai Grace on her appointment to lead Queensland Museum during an important time for the state as we prepare to host the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, with the museum playing an essential role in sharing our stories and showcasing our creativity. Her extensive experience and strong commitment to innovation, inclusion, and community engagement will ensure Queensland Museum continues to inspire and connect people across the state and beyond.”
Grace acknowledged Dr Thompson’s “remarkable contribution and the foundation he has built”.
“I look forward to working alongside our talented and deeply committed team to amplify the museum’s reach, secure new investment and strengthen its impact across the state,” she says.
“With Brisbane 2032 on the horizon, this is an extraordinary moment to reimagine how Queensland Museum can engage, inspire and empower our communities and connect with global audiences. Together, we will build a museum that reflects Queensland’s diversity, creativity and ambition for the future.”
Dr Thompson’s contract concludes on December 13 with Renai Grace commencing as CEO the following day for a five-year term.
Free to share
This article may be shared online or in print under a Creative Commons licence