Along the downtown riverfront, the Tampa Museum of Art has long been a gathering place where creativity meets community. Now, the institution is entering a pivotal new chapter—launching a global search for its next leader as longtime Executive Director Dr. Michael Tomor prepares to retire at the end of March.
The museum’s board has tapped Russell Reynolds Associates to lead the international search, signaling both the scale of the opportunity and the ambition behind it. The effort will be guided by arts and culture practice leaders Katherine Armstrong and Olivia Stam.
Building on a Transformational Era
For more than a decade, Tomor has helped shape the museum into a dynamic cultural hub—one that reflects Tampa’s growth as a city where business, creativity, and community intersect.
“We are grateful for Michael’s extraordinary leadership and the vision he cast for the Tampa Museum of Art during a transformative period in its history,” said Ron Christaldi. “Our committee is conducting a thorough global search for a successor who can build on this strong foundation, inspire our community, and continue elevating Tampa’s cultural landscape.”
Under Tomor’s leadership, the museum expanded its permanent collection by more than 1,500 works, while also deepening its community footprint. Programs like Connections, which links art and mental health, reflect a broader shift toward accessibility and impact—making the museum feel less like a destination and more like a shared civic space.
A Museum Growing With Tampa
That evolution mirrors the transformation of Tampa itself. Over the past decade, the museum has undergone a major renovation, adding 17,500 square feet of exhibition space, new galleries, and the Vinik Family Education Center—an 8,000-square-foot hub for hands-on learning across all ages.
Behind the scenes, a $100 million capital campaign continues to drive an ambitious expansion plan. Designed by New York-based architects Weiss/Manfredi, the project aims to create an even more iconic presence along the riverfront while reinforcing the museum’s role as a cultural and economic engine.
“Michael has been the right leader at the right time for the Tampa Museum of Art,” said Cornelia Corbett. “Thanks to his leadership, our museum is well-positioned as a striking community asset for future generations.”
What Comes Next
The search for the next executive director Tampa Museum isn’t just about leadership—it’s about vision. The board is casting a wide net, welcoming candidates from across the globe who can carry forward the museum’s momentum while deepening its connection to the community it serves.
For Tampa’s business and cultural circles, the moment feels significant. The next director will help define how art, education, and civic life continue to intersect in one of Florida’s fastest-evolving cities.
And as the skyline grows and neighborhoods evolve, one thing remains clear: the Tampa Museum of Art isn’t just keeping pace—it’s helping lead the way.
