NOBL Collective: A Change Management Firm with Profound Influence on the National Gallery of Canada

In recent years, the National Gallery of Canada has undergone significant changes as part of a reimagining effort aimed at making the institution more diverse and inclusive. At the center of this transformation was NOBL Collective, a California-based change management consultancy that worked closely with senior management to craft the gallery's new identity.

According to documents obtained through access-to-information requests, NOBL Collective's work with the National Gallery began in May 2020, shortly after Sasha Suda became director of the gallery. The firm's initial proposal outlined its plan for strategic planning sessions focused on topics such as 'Sensing, Vision and Bet Making,' which aimed to help the gallery navigate a period of uncertainty and rebirth.

Over the course of two-and-a-half years, NOBL Collective worked closely with the National Gallery's senior management and other team members, conducting one-on-one interviews and surveys to gain a deeper understanding of the institution's needs. The firm's work expanded to include strategic planning sessions, which helped shape the gallery's new focus, operations, and culture.

The scope of NOBL Collective's work was extensive, with the firm billing the National Gallery $632,500 over the course of its contract. This made it the single biggest line item among the museum's outside contractors during that time.

While NOBL Collective's efforts were intended to help the National Gallery achieve its goals, current and former staff members and donors have criticized the project as well-intentioned but poorly executed. They argue that the project left the institution in disarray, with some questioning whether the firm's influence was too great.

Despite these criticisms, it is clear that NOBL Collective played a significant role in shaping the National Gallery of Canada's reimagining over the past few years. The firm's work helped the gallery embark on a path towards greater diversity and inclusion, which has been led by current interim director Angela Cassie under Suda's leadership.

In conclusion, NOBL Collective's influence on the National Gallery of Canada cannot be overstated. While some have criticized the project, it is clear that the firm played a significant role in shaping the institution's new identity and culture. As the gallery continues to evolve and grow, its relationship with NOBL Collective will remain an important part of its history.

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