The Canadian Museum for Human Rights is under construction at the Forks Market and set to open in 2012. (CBC)

Manitoba's former Progressive Conservative party leader is now the first director of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights.

The announcement that Stuart Murray, 54, has been appointed to the role was made Tuesday by James Moore, minister of Canadian heritage and official languages.

"With his proven track record in leadership, management and fundraising, Mr. Murray brings a wealth of knowledge and skills to the museum," Moore said.

Murray, who was born and raised in Saskatchewan, had a varied career, including working as road manager for the rock band Blood, Sweat and Tears and then as media director for the Canadian Opera Company.

Stuart Murray, 54, has been appointed as director of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights. (CBC)

He moved to Winnipeg in 1989 after being named vice-president of the family-owned Domo Gasoline Corporation and became its CEO and president four years later.

In addition to once being leader of Manitoba's Opposition from 2000 to 2006, Murray has been the CEO of the St. Boniface Hospital and Research Foundation since 2006. He has also sat on several boards of directors, including those of the Canadian National Railway, the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, and the Winnipeg Art Gallery.

The Canadian Museum for Human Rights is Canada's first federal museum devoted to the topic of human rights. It is also the first national museum to be built in a generation — and the first to be built outside of Ottawa.

Currently under construction, the museum is scheduled to open in 2012 at Winnipeg's historic Forks Market area.

Its mission is to enhance the public's understanding of human rights, promote respect for others, and encourage reflection and dialogue on various human rights issues, according to a release from the federal government.