After an extensive international search, Gerry Bobsien has been named as the new Gallery Director of Maitland Regional Art Gallery.
Ms Bobsien is greatly experienced with her CV including stints with Newcastle City Council, Muswellbrook Shire Council, the LockUp Gallery, University of Newcastle and her most recent position as head of Governance and Strategy at the National Gallery of Australia in Canberra.
"The Gallery Director plays a critical role working with gallery staff, volunteers and over 1000 MRAG members to deliver world class exhibitions not only for the people of Maitland, but to draw visitation from outside the area, supporting our visitor economy," Mayor Loretta Baker said.
"We are pleased to have attracted such an accomplished professional to take the helm of one of Australia's best regional galleries and oversee the Gallery's enviable collection, worth over $10 million."
Ms Bobsien is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) (English), Bachelor of Arts (Communications) and Graduate Diploma Information Technology and Library Management.
She takes the reins from Keryl Collard who was seconded to the position of Manager Gallery and Libraries and will return to her substantive role of Manager Libraries & Learning.
MRAG Members President Sui-Linn White said her committee looks forward to welcoming Ms Bobsien.
"Our focus is to support the Gallery's program, advocate for the significant role it plays in making our community a great place to live, and to retain its reputation as 'the people's Gallery' through access, equity and education," she said.
"It is a credit to the Council to have attracted such a strong and accomplished candidate."
MRAG remains temporarily closed to the public to help with minimising the spread of COVID-19 in the community, but is currently offering a range of experiences for its audience to enjoy at home.
