A leaner Leonardo moving forward

The Leonardo, as re-imagined by its new executive director, is starting to take shape — and Salt Lake City officials say they're pleased with the progress.

Two months have passed since Peter Giles was handed a fresh canvas and a paint brush and tasked with proving to city leaders — and potential donors — that the art, science and culture center is viable and worthy of their support.

The Giles-led Leonardo has taken steps in that direction, city officials said, demonstrating a commitment to becoming more cost-effective — including a recent consolidation of duties that eliminated three full-time positions.

Giles also has inspired an attitude of accountability among his management team and The Leonardo's board of directors, a recognition that the center will succeed or fail based upon how well they develop and implement their business plan.

"(Giles) has brought to this board and this management team a vision that they control their own destiny," said Rick Graham, Salt Lake City's public services director and one of the city officials meeting regularly with The Leonardo team. "The prior team was relying on the city and others to help them pull this thing off. This group clearly understands they have a larger role to play."

Since relocating to Utah and beginning work for The Leonardo full time on Nov. 3, Giles has revamped the management team, firing business and project manager Philippe Wyffels.

Alexandra Hesse, formerly The Leonardo's exhibits manager, has been promoted to associate director and is sharing the center's financial duties with Giles, said Lisa Davis, spokeswoman for The Leonardo.

Former executive director Mary Tull now serves as a part-time consultant, dealing with community and donor issues, Davis said.

"(Giles and The Leonardo board) wanted to realign and consolidate their resources to maximize everyone's efforts and be in a good, smart, lean place to move forward," she said.

Giles said the staff needed to be "adjusted" to fit The Leonardo's resources, allowing the center to develop a plan for programs and exhibits "with strong educational and visitor-attraction value."

"I am realistic about our challenges but positive about the progress we are making on all fronts," he said.