Aberdeen Science Centre has launched a search for a new chair of its board.

The successful candidate will provide direction and leadership to the board and should have a passion for education, in particular science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

Professor Stephen Logan was chair of Aberdeen Science Centre from February 2020 until he stepped down in June 2021.

Treasurer Sandy Morton has been acting as the interim chair and will return to his role as treasurer once a new chair has been appointed.

Aberdeen-based TMM Executive, which specialises in executive search, is supporting Aberdeen Science Centre to find the right person.

Bryan Snelling with RoboThespian, one of the most popular exhibits at Aberdeen Science Centre

Bryan Snelling, chief executive of Aberdeen Science Centre said now was an ideal time for a new chair to come on board.

“We want to further strengthen the board and are looking for a proactive, engaged individual to take up the role of chair. We are keen to find someone with a passion for STEM, who will use this to drive Aberdeen Science Centre forward,” he said.

“We have recently had fantastic success in a variety of areas. These include the recognition of Aberdeen Science Centre as a 5-star visitor attraction by VisitScotland and several successful funding bids which will enable us to expand our offerings. We want to consolidate the work that has been done to date while continuing to build our programme of events, workshops and corporate engagement.

“The new chair will play a vital role in ensuring we achieve our strategic goals and continue to deliver an outstanding experience to everyone visiting Aberdeen Science Centre - whether it’s to engage with our interactive exhibits, or to attend a workshop or corporate event.”

The new chair will be Aberdeen Science Centre’s second board appointment of 2023, with Laurence Findlay, head of education and children’s services at Aberdeenshire Council, having joined the board in January.

Amanda McCulloch, chief executive of TMM Executive, said: “We are pleased to be supporting Aberdeen Science Centre with its search for a new chairperson. The centre has exciting plans for its continued development and this is a fantastic opportunity for the right person to make a difference to both local schools and young people who visit, and to help strengthen links with industry to shape the workforce of the future.

“Joining a board brings a number of benefits, including developing decision making and complex thinking skills, leadership development and network building, as well as making a socially responsible contribution.

“The new chairperson will have the chance to use their business skills, experience and contacts to help Aberdeen Science Centre to grow an even richer experience for visitors.”

Aberdeen Science Centre reopened to the public in November 2020 after a major project to create an aspirational science centre which reflects the STEM priorities for both industry and education.

The centre’s exhibits are aimed at all ages and are themed into six zones: Energy; Space; Life Sciences; Make It, Test It; and the dedicated area for the under-6s, as well as the Shell Learning Zone, where STEM topics are brought to life.

Aberdeen Science Centre’s £4.7million redevelopment was made possible by generous support and funding from the Inspiring Science Fund – a partnership between the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and Wellcome - with additional funding provided by Opportunity North East (ONE) and Aberdeen City Council.

The project secured a further £1.5million from funders and sponsors including OPITO, Shell, Equinor, bp, The Robertson Trust, TAQA and CNOOC International to deliver quality exhibits and programmes to enhance the overall visitor experience at the venue, as well through outreach work.

In January 2023 it was announced that Aberdeen Science Centre was one of 13 Aberdeen projects to be awarded funding by the Just Transition Fund. The centre was awarded £39,500 for an interactive climate change exhibit and electric vehicle.

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