Baptiste Marcere steps down as executive director of North Peace Cultural Society

Baptiste Marcere has stepped down as the executive director of the North Peace Cultural Society after five years to take on a position with B.C.’s Ministry of Indigenous Relations.

Baptiste Marcere has resigned as executive director of the North Peace Cultural Society. (supplied)

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Baptiste Marcere has stepped down as the executive director of the North Peace Cultural Society after five years to take on a position with B.C.’s Ministry of Indigenous Relations.

Current operations manager Oliver Hachmeister will serve as the new executive director as of June 1st.

The society says Marcere will continue working on ongoing projects until the end of June.

“It has been an extraordinary journey working with the North Peace Cultural Society over the past five years,” said Marcere.

“I have been truly blessed to witness the passion and creativity of this amazing community and to collaborate with a strong and visionary board.”

Marcere has helped the organization provide enriching cultural experiences, foster artistic expression and promote community engagement, according to the society.

“His innovative initiatives and strategic vision have strengthened the society’s position as a leading cultural institution,” said the society in a release.

Among Marcere’s list of achievements during his tenure with the society, the most notable was when he created an out-of-school program within two weeks after a local daycare closed.

“This initiative not only demonstrated his exceptional organizational and problem-solving skills but also showcased his unwavering dedication to the well-being and support of the community’s children and families.”

In a release, the society also pointed out the growth of Hachmeister, who started out as a theatre technician and quickly progressed to other positions within the society through his dedication.

“Through his unwavering commitment and continuous growth, he progressed to the roles of Assistant Manager and then Operations Manager. Hachmeister’s invaluable knowledge, skills, and passion have been instrumental in shaping the North Peace Cultural Society into what it is today,” said the society.

According to the society, its board has full confidence in Hachmeister’s ability to continue building on the organization’s success.

“Hachmeister’s extensive experience in arts management and his deep understanding of society’s operations make him a natural fit for the position.”

The board wished Marcere well in the future and thanked him for his contributions to the society.