Summary
Overview
Work History
Skills
Hobbies and Interests
References
Timeline
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Ryan Varney

Bairnsdale,VIC

Summary

With an extensive background spanning over twenty years, I've effectively led teams, refined processes, and implemented strategic systems across diverse industries. Whether managing small-scale initiatives or spearheading complex projects, my focus remains on improving operational efficiency while ensuring compliance with task-specific policies and procedures. Recognized for my meticulous attention to detail, forward-thinking approach, and adeptness in high-pressure environments, I am consistently sought after for guidance and support, delivering exceptional outcomes, particularly in challenging situations. Additionally, I am deeply committed to mentorship and find great fulfillment in leveraging my expertise to cultivate talent and drive organizational success. Continuously fueled by a desire to learn and grow, I am dedicated to embracing new challenges and expanding my knowledge base. My commitment extends beyond self-improvement as I endeavor to motivate and support others in their own journey.

Overview

12
12
years of professional experience

Work History

Divisional Returning Officer (DRO)

Australian Electoral Commission
Gippsland, Victoria
03.2023 - Current

Independent statutory authority responsible for conducting Federal Elections and Referendums in Australia.

  • Managed 120,000+ ballot papers, 66 Polling Places, Mobile Polling and a team of more than 600 staff for The Voice Referendum.
  • Oversaw all phases from planning to execution and post-event analysis at the divisional level.
  • Fostered engagement with Indigenous and remote communities to ensure their active participation and enfranchisement in the electoral process.
  • Handled material projections and logistics pre and post-event.
  • Handled material projections and logistics pre and post-event
  • Ensured adherence to the AECs legislative driven policies and procedures.
  • Chairperson for the recruitment drive of two divisions.
  • Approached to review and improve Standard Operating Procedures for electoral forecasting and processing.
  • Volunteered to participate in Workplace Improvement Working Group to address staff concerns highlighted in the 2023 AEC census.

Volunteer

Project Bairnsdale 2050
East Gippsland Shire Council, Victoria
01.2024 - Current

Panel of community leaders from various disciplines proposing focal points for the Shire’s future plans of Bairnsdale, East Gippsland.

  • Advocate for recognition, preservation, and inclusion of the Shire’s Aboriginal community and cultural heritage in decision-making processes.
  • Promote the expansion of Arts and Culture initiatives in the region.
  • Champion innovative solutions to reduce emissions and waste, with a focus on local sustainability efforts.
  • Support local entrepreneurship and business development.
  • Plan efficient transportation systems to enhance connectivity between dispersed townships.

Volunteer

Lost Motos
01.2018 - Current

Not-for-profit organisation that focuses on facilitating a safe space for honest and open dialogue around men’s mental health.

  • Facilitate workshops.
  • Securing guest speakers for events.
  • Plan, negotiate, and action collaborative initiatives.

NSW Installation Manager

T.E.D. Fine Art
, Australia
03.2022 - 02.2023

Australia’s premier art installation and crating company.

  • Led a team of technicians engaged by The Australian Museum as part of their Repatriation Program to document and pack Indigenous Burial Trees, following Indigenous Elders cultural instruction.
  • Lead technician engaged by Coffs Harbour council on the South Solitary Island Lighthouse Optic project.
  • Deinstallation and reinstallation of a 144 year old lighthouse optic.
  • Researching and sourcing equipment and expertise.
  • Adhering to established policies, processes and plans, including safety protocols and SWMS creation.
  • Created training modules and developed Performance Development Plans.
  • Providing technical advice and solutions for public exhibitions, private collectors and government agencies.

Team Manager

Coles - Distribution Centre
Eastern Creek, NSW
02.2021 - 02.2022

Leading Australian retailer with over 2,500 retail outlets nationally.

  • Assisted shift manager in daily output planning.
  • Provided coaching, support, and management to up to 200 team members per shift, guiding them to achieve and surpass operational goals and performance targets.
  • Optimized workload allocation for efficiency.
  • Ensured adherence to commercial budget and cost management.
  • Oversaw safety incident reporting and logging.
  • Facilitated communication across all business levels.
  • Managed relationships with casual agencies regarding attendance, productivity, and behaviour.
  • Tracked shift KPIs hourly throughout the distribution centre.

National Operations Manager

Global Art Solutions
, NSW
09.2018 - 02.2020

Art Transportation and Installation Start-up.

  • Played a pivotal role in executing the company's strategic vision and refining operating procedures under the guidance of the General Manager.
  • Achieved notable success in securing high-profile contracts including the storage and transport of Lady Fairfax’s estate.
  • Designed and implemented a bespoke warehouse inventory system.
  • Facilitated seamless communication with artists and oversaw successful completion of commission projects.
  • Coordinated efficient warehouse management and international shipping logistics.

Project Supervisor

International Art Services
, NSW
05.2016 - 08.2018

Australia’s premier art transportation company.

  • Supervised staff to maintain and elevate operational standards, providing mentorship as needed.
  • Played a key role in planning and executing the prestigious Sydney Contemporary Art Fair.
  • Collaborated closely with artists and galleries to ensure seamless movement and setup of exhibitions.
  • Managed the delivery of electoral ballot boxes for the state of Victoria, demonstrating adept project management skills.
  • Spearheaded the transition from paper consignment notes to electronic, streamlining processes.
  • Tasked with the companies most challenging assignments, from inception to completion.
  • Orchestrated the closure of a major Sydney street and coordinated the crane delivery of 22 crates (3 tons) of artwork into a 12th-story office.

NSW State Manager

King & Wilson Essential Art Services
10.2015 - 05.2016

Fine art logistics and storage department of King & Wilson Removals.

  • Proactively expanded business by cultivating relationships with potential clients.
  • Managed domestic and international customer relations to enhance brand reputation.
  • Conducted on-site inspections and provided detailed quotations to clients.
  • Directed and supervised the seamless warehouse relocation of over a thousand works of art.
  • Implemented effective budgeting strategies to maximize resources and improve financial health.

Gallery Coordinator/Registrar/Technician

Sotheby’s
London/Hong Kong/Beijing
05.2012 - 04.2014

One of the world’s largest brokers of fine and decorative art, jewellery and real estate and collectibles.

  • Developed and delivered tailored training modules for Hong Kong staff, focusing on gallery setups, installation, and art handling.
  • Served as Head Registrar for Western artifacts in Hong Kong, ensuring meticulous record-keeping and inventory management.
  • Led gallery installations with precision and attention to detail.
  • Tasked with framing by notable artists like Monet, Renoir, and Rembrandt.
  • Managed receipt of property from shipping companies and clients, maintaining stringent security measures.
  • Collaborated with local and international experts on the condition, transportation, and installation requirements of artworks.
  • Packed delicate items, including ceramic, glass, ivory, and porcelain, ensuring safe transport.

Skills

  • Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills: Adept at building rapport with diverse stakeholders
  • Strong business acumen and strategic mindset: Capable of maintaining focus amidst conflicting requirements Experienced in providing leadership and direction in complex situations
  • Highly adaptable and resilient self-starter: Hands-on mentality with a proactive approach to problem-solving Skilled in motivating and inspiring teams to achieve their goals
  • Quick learner: Ability to absorb new information and adapt to changing circumstances Committed to continuous personal and professional development
  • Collaborative team player: Proven track record of fostering positive working relationships Experienced in leading and collaborating with cross-functional teams to achieve common objectives

Hobbies and Interests

  • Restoration Projects. For the last several years I have been restoring my 1975 Honda CB550F – and riding it on the rare occasion it is working.
  • Cooking. I enjoy cooking complex meals with challenging recipes, measuring ingredients to within the gram (much to my wife’s entertainment).
  • Music. My vintage stereo is accompanied by many records that have been collected on hunting trips to vintage shops, markets and garage sales.
  • Art. As my CV might suggest, I thoroughly enjoy art and culture, gallery visits and live music.
  • Gardening. This is my newest (and most surprising) interest. I have become one of those people that tend to their lawns every need.

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Volunteer

Project Bairnsdale 2050
01.2024 - Current

Divisional Returning Officer (DRO)

Australian Electoral Commission
03.2023 - Current

NSW Installation Manager

T.E.D. Fine Art
03.2022 - 02.2023

Team Manager

Coles - Distribution Centre
02.2021 - 02.2022

National Operations Manager

Global Art Solutions
09.2018 - 02.2020

Volunteer

Lost Motos
01.2018 - Current

Project Supervisor

International Art Services
05.2016 - 08.2018

NSW State Manager

King & Wilson Essential Art Services
10.2015 - 05.2016

Gallery Coordinator/Registrar/Technician

Sotheby’s
05.2012 - 04.2014
Ryan Varney