Mar 9, 2021

Captain John Clarkson, Board Chair of the Maritime Museum of British Columbia, has announced that David Leverton, Executive Director of the Maritime Museum has decided to retire. Mr. Leverton is currently on sabbatical until October 1 but has decided to step down from the position in order to pursue other personal and professional interests.

David has served as Executive Director for the past five years and believes that the time is right for someone else to take the helm. David stated that, “it is my personal belief that it is often in the best interests of most organizations to have new leadership every five years. It is always beneficial to have fresh ideas and the museum has a great team and tremendous level of volunteerism. I have been very proud of the hard work and dedication of the Board, staff, and volunteers in trying to address the many challenges the Museum has faced since leaving Bastion Square.”

Over the past five years, the Museum has been able to transform the small Societies Office at Nootka Court into a wonderful fully functioning boutique museum and have offered several in-house exhibitions including the international travelling SS Princess Sophia exhibit. The Museum has successfully continued the operation of the Massive Marine Garage Sale and established the All Things Marine Thrift Store as well as operated the Classic Boat Festival for three successive years until the arrival of COVID-19.

Mr. Clarkson stated that,”During the one-year period I have been Chair of the Board, David has guided me constantly in all thing’s museum utilizing his outstanding knowledge through years of successful management in this field of work.  David constantly explores all options and consideration in and out of the box to advance the museum to its maximum, displaying tireless dedication in his role as Executive Director. I consider David a friend who has my full support in any future endeavor he undertakes, and the Maritime Museum of BC will be a lesser institution without him.” 

Don Prittie, Past Chair of the Maritime Museum of BC stated that, “For the last five years, David Leverton has been a tireless worker in preserving and presenting the rich maritime history of British Columbia. His enthusiasm and passion were evident from our very first meeting and has maintained to this day. While David’s knowledge and experience will be sorrily missed, he leaves behind a small and dedicated team to carry on the important work of the MMBC. I wish David all the best in his future endeavors.”

Mr. Leverton believes that even with all the challenges associated with the ongoing pandemic there is light at the end of the tunnel. David stated that, “the greatest strength of the Maritime Museum of British Columbia is the commitment of the people involved. During the 2019-2020 operating year the Museum had over 150 volunteers. The successful creation of a new Maritime Museum in the Greater Victoria region will be in large part, thanks to the continued dedication and support of these volunteer Members. British Columbia has a rich maritime history and it has been a privilege to be involved in sharing this story.”