The public has criticized the ministry because Riina Roosipuu, a ministry official, was chosen as the new director of the Natural History Museum. The Museums Association states that the selection of a museum director should be professional and involve field expertise.
Deputy Chancellor Marten Kokk says that a new director was sought because the term of the current director, Heidi Jõks, is ending. Jõks has worked well, but after five to ten years, it is good to give others a chance. Thirteen candidates participated in the competition, who underwent tests and interviews.
Minister Sutt says the commission selected the best candidate. Roosipuu has already been working on the new Nature House Taru project for 10 months and knows its strengths and weaknesses. Her top-level leadership experience is important because the museum is becoming larger.
Kokk explained that the new museum in Noblessner is a different type of institution. There are many jobs and office buildings to manage. Roosipuu has led the Estonian Lottery and worked at IBM, giving her experience in managing large projects.
Sutt says that field experts are responsible for museum work. The top leader's task is to organize work and manage the institution. This is common practice worldwide. For example, the Leiden Natural History Museum is led by a former diplomat.
The Museums Association recommended organizing a new competition with field experts. Kokk said that the next competition's commission could include a museum representative. However, there will be no new competition. Sutt confirmed that Roosipuu will remain as director and no new search will be conducted.
Sutt said it is normal for people to express opinions. He will meet with the Natural History Museum staff to discuss the future. Museum directors wrote an open letter, but Sutt did not give an interview on the topic.
The new Nature House Taru is being built next to Tallinn's Seaplane Harbour. It consists of three buildings connected underground. The museum will open at the beginning of next year.