Sensation Science Centre > News > Dundee Science Centre Names New CEO

The Dundee Science Centre Board of Directors has announced the appointment of Louise Smith as the science centre’s new Chief Executive Officer.

Ms Smith officially took up the post March after completing an interim period as Acting Chief Executive, whilst a national recruitment process was conducted.

During the period Ms Smith was Acting CEO the science centre enjoyed the busiest year in its ten year history, recording over 78,000 visits to the centre. Prior to this, as Director of Projects at the science centre, Louise was responsible for raising over £3m in funding, which allowed the science centre to renew 80% of its exhibits.

Louise moved to Dundee in 1993 to study at The University of Dundee. Having gained a degree in Political Science and Social Policy, Louise became Vice-President of the students Association in a sabbatical role for two years. She remained in Dundee to study for a post graduate diploma in Human Resources, before taking her professional exams in Project Management.

Ms Smith began her career at the science centre almost ten years ago, during the start-up phase of the £5m Millennium Project, Dundee Science Centre – Sensation. As the organisation prepares to celebrate its 10th birthday this summer, it is fitting that Louise has become the new CEO.

Ten years on, the science centre is looking forward to yet another exciting year with an intriguing Easter show called ‘Have you Ever Wondered Why’ which has been created from visitor suggestions, and an amazing summer exhibition called ‘One Small Step’ which is about space travel, as well as a host of other special events throughout the year.

Following the announcement Ms Smith commented “I am passionate about Dundee and proud of its achievements. The city is developing into a cultural hotspot and the Science Centre is an important part of this cultural mix and, as CEO, I am delighted to be able to shape the future of the organisation in its mission to become a community resource for all”.

Ms Smith continued “As an organisation we aim to inspire a culture of curiosity and confidence for the local community, excite the scientists of tomorrow and increase the numbers of students taking science subjects to Higher and further education levels”.

Announcing the appointment Dundee Science Centre’s Chairman David Sigsworth, commented “Louise is a highly regarded Director with extensive experience, which has helped the organisation achieve its most successful year during 2009. With the science centre poised to move to a new level of public engagement with science, Louise is the right person to lead Dundee Science Centre to even greater achievements.”