The Estonian Museums Association is critical of the competition for the new director of the Natural History Museum. They believe the new leader was chosen incorrectly because they lack museum work experience.
The Association wrote to the Ministry of Climate. They requested a check on whether the competition process was fair. According to the Association, the competition committee did not have enough independent experts.
The committee consisted only of employees from the Ministry of Climate. There were no experts from museums or natural sciences. The new director's superior was also on the committee. This could create problems.
The Association states that the competition lacked essential requirements. For example, no museum management experience or vision for developing the museum was expected. The competition announcement also did not reach the museum sector.
The Association wants the Ministry of Climate to clarify the competition process. They wish for an independent review. Managing a state museum is important because the museum is a public institution.
Some museum directors support the Association's position. They emphasize that the Natural History Museum is successful. The current director, Heidi Jõks, has led the museum for 15 years. Many innovations have been made during her tenure.
Riina Roosipuu was selected as the new director. She has experience managing the TV Tower and Eesti Loto. The current director, Heidi Jõks, will leave on November 30.
Thirteen candidates participated in the competition. Interviews were conducted with four individuals. The final decision was made by Minister Andres Sutt.
The new Natural History Museum will open in Noblessner. It consists of three buildings. Other institutions of the Ministry of Climate are also located there. The museum was designed by architects Siiri Vallner, Indrek Peil, Kristel Niisuke, and Ko Ai.