The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) in Toronto has appointed Nicholas R. Bell as its new director and CEO, effective July 6. Bell, who currently leads the Glenbow museum in Calgary, succeeds Josh Basseches following a decade-long tenure. During his time at Glenbow, Bell was noted for securing a $250 million capital campaign and implementing a landmark free-admission policy, the first of its kind for a major Canadian museum.
This leadership transition is significant as the ROM, Canada's largest museum, seeks to modernize its strategic vision and expand its global research footprint. Bell’s proven track record in financial sustainability, Indigenous reconciliation, and large-scale renovations suggests a focus on institutional accessibility and infrastructure growth. His appointment also triggers a leadership shift at Glenbow, where Melanie Kjorlien will take over as president and CEO.