Ashley Waite
Sarasota,FL
Summary
Seasoned non-profit professional (9 years) with comprehensive experience leading teams, optimizing processes, and implementing cost-effective strategies. Skilled in strategic planning, staff development, and operational efficiency, consistently improving workflow and reducing costs. Proven track record of enhancing overall business performance through effective leadership and innovative problem-solving.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Museum Experience
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature
Bradenton, FL
01.2022 - Current
- Manage and oversee the successful operations of Visitor Services, the Museum Store, Exhibitions, Collections, and the Planetarium.
- Conceived and executed the wildly successful Laser Light Show program, which generates $100,000 in revenue annually over 12 weeks.
- Grew Planetarium program revenue by 56% while decreasing ticket prices to reach a wider audience.
- Secured blockbuster exhibitions to increase attendance to pre-pandemic levels.
- Cultivated and nurtured community partnerships to create mutually profitable, mission-based public programs.
- Grew the volunteer program by 500% in three months by streamlining the application and scheduling process.
- Develop positive relationships with high-level donors through one-on-one communication and special events to keep them actively engaged.
- Responsible for organizing, coordinating, and implementing all aspects of the Bishop's exhibitions, including traveling exhibitions and associated programming.
Interpretation Manager
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature
Bradenton, FL
08.2021 - 01.2022
- Led a cross-functional team to design, develop, and execute museum exhibitions.
- Creatively synthesized complex and divisive scientific topics into approachable, impactful experiences.
- Prepared budgets and project timelines to remain on target and within budget.
Special Projects Manager
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature
Bradenton, FL
04.2019 - 08.2021
- Developed and managed the content research and implementation of the museum's mobile app.
- Coordinated with internal stakeholders and external vendors to ensure smooth execution of various projects.
- Assisted the Communications department by creating a variety of marketing materials using the Adobe Suite.
Digital Content Manager
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature
Bradenton, FL
01.2017 - 04.2019
- Successfully implemented the Museum's mobile touring app within four months.
- Monitored analytics and data to ensure that content was reaching its intended audience.
- Coordinated with team members to create effective campaigns for social media platforms.
- Maintained an organized library of digital assets including images, audio files, videos.
Manatee Care Specialist
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature
Bradenton, FL
07.2015 - 01.2017
- Executed the daily husbandry needs for rehabilitating Florida manatees.
- Maintained detailed health records and observations.
- Regularly conducted live presentations to hundreds of visitors.
Naturalist/First Mate
Adventures in Paradise
Sanibel, FL
01.2015 - 12.2015
- Responsible for the safety and enjoyment of up to 60 guests while on hours-long cruises.
- Organized and led extensive eco-tours that detailed Florida's unique environments.
- Conducted daily maintenance of equipment.
Sea Turtle Monitoring Technician
Collier County Government
Bonita Springs, FL
04.2015 - 10.2015
- Conducted nest patrols on five miles of beach using an ATV.
- Maintained meticulous records, capturing all the details necessary to evaluate population health.
- Educated beachgoers on sea turtle life histories and protections.
Education
Masters of Professional Science - Marine Biology And Fisheries
University of Miami
Miami, FL12-2013
Master of Science - Marine Biology
Florida Gulf Coast University
Fort Myers, FL05-2012
Skills
- Project Management
- Cross-functional Team Leadership
- Relationship Management
- Nuanced Communication
- Empathic Leadership
- Data-driven Decision Making
Accomplishments
- 2022 SRQ Magazine 35 under 35 Award Winner
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Director of Museum Experience
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature
01.2022 - Current
Interpretation Manager
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature
08.2021 - 01.2022
Special Projects Manager
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature
04.2019 - 08.2021
Digital Content Manager
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature
01.2017 - 04.2019
Manatee Care Specialist
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature
07.2015 - 01.2017
Sea Turtle Monitoring Technician
Collier County Government
04.2015 - 10.2015
Naturalist/First Mate
Adventures in Paradise
01.2015 - 12.2015
Masters of Professional Science - Marine Biology And Fisheries
University of Miami
Master of Science - Marine Biology
Florida Gulf Coast University
Similar Profiles
Juan GarciaJuan Garcia
Building Engineer at Perot Museum Of Nature And ScienceBuilding Engineer at Perot Museum Of Nature And Science
Imara BaumhauerImara Baumhauer
Volunteer at Denver Museum of Nature & ScienceVolunteer at Denver Museum of Nature & Science
Michael RobertsMichael Roberts
Building Engineer at Perot Museum Of Nature And ScienceBuilding Engineer at Perot Museum Of Nature And Science