Hello Everyone,

I am writing to let you know that Alain Graham has decided to leave his role as Chief, People. Alain has been an incredibly kind and strong leader. He leads from the heart. He truly cares about all our AGO colleagues, and I will miss him deeply. I know many of you will, too. He has been a touch point on a daily basis, checking in through personal interactions and measuring the pulse of our most precious resource – people – throughout the museum.

I appreciate his decision that he has made for himself and his family and wish him well.

In his 9-year tenure at the AGO, Alain has made many significant contributions. He has mentored and stewarded a new generation of HR professionals ensuring that knowledge is shared and continued among his diverse team, most of whom are new to the organization within the past 5 years. He has deftly navigated labour relations from a position of trust, professionalism, and respect. He has helped with the transition from outdated systems to more efficient technology. He has encouraged staff to adapt to the changes that have taken place over the past several years – both within and outside of the museum – embodied in our operational and strategic priorities. He has been a key member of the Joint Working Committee, which established new Values for the AGO. And he has been an important member of the Leadership Team, including through challenges such as the pandemic and development of the AGO Plan, which helped save jobs at the AGO. In both staff and volunteer relations, Alain always puts people first.

We will begin recruitment for the Chief, People role soon. I am grateful that Alain will stay involved as a consultant in the interim as we transition to new leadership. Erin Prendergast will continue to act as Interim People leader to provide LT support to the team.

Thank you, Alain.

Stephan