Since taking over as Science North’s CEO 25 years ago, Jim Marchbank has transformed the centre into a world-class place for “informal” science learning.
He doesn’t take much credit for it though.
“I don’t think this whole place is about me — it’s about the tremendously talented, creative people working this place ... day in and day out,” he said. “I’ve just been really lucky to head up a great staff team and a great organization.”
On May 6, Marchbank will step down from the position of CEO. He said the science centre is ready for new leadership.
“I hope the new leader will bring new ideas, new enthusiasm and new energy,” he said. “I have no doubt the place will go on to greater successes.”
Marchbank began working at Science North before it opened. He was originally the centre’s director of development, responsible for fundraising. He held the position from 1982 until 1987, when he stepped up to become CEO.
I’ve never felt inhibited by not being a scientist.
Jim Marchbank,
Science North CEO
Marchbank, who came to Sudbury from Scotland with his parents at age 17, “studied the dismal science — economics” at Laurentian University. After that, he said he “fell into” various jobs in the communications field.
“I’ve never felt inhibited by not being a scientist,” he said, reflecting on his term at Science North.
Marchbank said having a dedicated staff team, strong community leadership and supportive community members has made his job easier.
“All cultural institutions have this dilemma,” he said. “Is your organization headed by someone steeped in the culture of the specialty of what you have, or is it lead by someone with solid (management) skills?”
During the time Marchbank has been at the helm of Science North, he said his most memorable accomplishment was the addition of the IMAX Theatre in 1994.
“The IMAX Theatre is using what is still the best filming technology in the world,” he said. “It complements the kinds of stuff we show in (the theatre) and in our exhibits.”
A provincial funding announcement in 2009 also meant good things for Science North.
The centre’s operating budget was boosted from $3.4 to $7 million.
“That really corrected a long-term underfunding problem,” Marchbank said, adding that it was “the most welcome news” the centre ever received.
There were challenges along the way.
Marchbank said he was regularly faced with too many good ideas.
“There has always been more ideas in this place than there is money to fund them,” he said.
As his term as CEO comes to an end, Marchbank said he plans to take the summer off, then look for part-time or short term work in a related field.
“I refuse to use the ‘r-word,’” he said with a laugh.
According to a press release from Science North, a new CEO will be appointed by the time Marchbank leaves.
