Business and tourism powerhouse ‘at the helm’ of museum’s commercial division

Deanna Varga

Following a rigorous selection process, the Australian National Maritime Museum in Sydney’s Darling Harbour, has appointed accomplished events and tourism professional, Deanna Varga, to the executive team as Assistant Director, Commercial & Visitor Services.

For the last two years, Ms Varga had been acting in the role with great success. Museum director Kevin Sumption explained the outstanding commercial outcomes achieved by Ms Varga and her team during this time spoke volumes to her leadership skills, her ability to overcome challenges, seize opportunities and exceed the expectations of the museum’s executive.

“Being responsible for driving long-term commercial sustainability generated through self-funding of a Federal Government cultural attraction and unique Sydney venue is no mean feat, and Ms Varga has delivered nothing but significant results thus far.

“From growing the Commercial and Visitor Services division year-on-year by 3% during a challenging period of time for the Darling Harbour precinct, through to a 54% increase in sponsorship revenue, Ms Varga has certainly demonstrated her sound business acumen.

“Under her leadership, the museum’s membership base has grown significantly and revenue from the museum’s venues business has increased by more than a third. Needless to say, her valuable insights have been a welcomed addition to our Executive team,” highlighted Mr Sumption.

Ms Varga’s responsibilities span not only the museum’s commercial activities, but increasingly the museum’s role in helping drive the development of the Darling Harbour precinct. To accomplish this, she will continue to draw on her 19+ years’ experience working in a number of senior roles across the business and tourism sectors.

“I’m passionate about Sydney and I believe my role here at the museum will help steer Sydney toward further growth and success. There is so much in the pipeline that will reinvigorate our visitors’ love affair with Darling Harbour and in turn all that the museum has to offer,” said Ms Varga.

And there is a lot on offer.

“On 8 November this year, we will be launching Sydney’s newest waterfront attraction, incentive product and unique venue offering, Action Stations. The $12 million development will host three world-class function spaces including an outdoor rooftop terrace, a city view venue and a cinematic experience commemorating over 100 years of service by the Royal Australian Navy,” concluded Ms Varga.

Action Stations is just one of many initiatives Ms Varga has contributed to during her time at the museum. Future projects she will help drive forward include Horrible Histories™ Pirates – The Exhibition opening in December 2015, international exhibition Ships, Clocks and Stars opening May 2016, the museum’s participation in the renowned Vivid festival and the 2016 Classic Wooden Boat Festival in April.