Guest Experience Expert Brings 20+ Years at Culture and Entertainment Venues to Virginia
The Science Museum of Virginia looked long and hard to find just the right candidate for the new chief operating officer position. After an extensive nationwide search, the organization found the perfect fit for the senior leadership role in Ash Harris.
Harris, who started August 29, brings more than two decades of guest-focused operations experience to the Science Museum. As COO, he will oversee facilities, guest services, special events, retail and food service, technology, and security. He will also oversee operations at the Science Museum’s satellite location in Danville, and the under-construction satellite location opening in Northern Virginia.
“Ash’s addition to our already-strong team will allow for increased focus on several key aspects of operations across all our institutions, which will foster organizational growth and success,” said Chief Wonder Officer Richard Conti. “Adding the new role will ensure the Science Museum provides the best possible environment for encouraging discovery and sparking curiosity.”
Harris comes to Virginia from the San Antonio Zoo in Texas where he served as vice president of guest experience. There he managed ticketing, information technology, security, revenue, rides, park quality and attractions for the zoo, which had more than 1.2 million visitors a year.
Harris started his career at Six Flags Astroworld in Houston as an operations manager, followed by management positions with the Children’s Museum of Houston. He then spent time at EdVenture Children’s Museum in South Carolina, Herschend Family Entertainment in Georgia and Camelback Resort in Pennsylvania. Harris gained training in world-class service by attending leadership courses at the Disney Institute.
“A positive guest experience is paramount across all organizations to ensure an enjoyable and memorable visit,” Harris said. “I know Virginians are passionate about supporting cultural institutions and value what museums offer the community. I’m passionate about service, and I look forward to serving Virginians an exceptional experience at their beloved Science Museum.”
About the Science Museum of Virginia
From virtual presentations featuring STEM experts to fun videos on social media to in-person experiential exhibits, the Science Museum of Virginia looks for every opportunity to inspire all Virginians to enrich their lives through science. Helping curious minds discover the connections between — and their connection to — science, technology, engineering and math guides Science Museum staff in all they do. Learn more at www.smv.org or call 804.864.1400.
