Executive Director

Executive Director

 925.280.2490

 100 Pringle Avenue, Suite 540, Walnut Creek, CA, 94596

The California Symphony Orchestra seeks a colleague able to build upon our organization’s recent growth as an industry leader and to help craft new ways to sustain our goals. The Executive Director will be responsible for the management of all human and financial resources needed for our continued success.  This executive will serve as the chief operating officer and report to the Board of Directors through the Board President. The Executive Director must establish a close working relationship with the Music Director, to support his or her artistic activities related to the CSO. Management of budgetary and fundraising activities that support the financial stability and sustainability of the organization will be a key responsibility.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

 

Set the tone for the organizational operations. Attend orchestra performances and public presentations and serve as an advocate for the CSO, taking an active role in fundraising and community engagement and serve as a public face for the orchestra in community and patron/donor relations.
Cooperate with, support and assist the Music Director and facilitate the performance of his/her duties.
Provide day-to-day oversight for the administrative staff of the CSO to assure that they are properly focused and led to achieve the expected business results. Staff consists of 3 full time employees, a part time book keeper, and 2 summer interns.
Direct the business management of the CSO and assure adherence to its annual operating budget, including oversight of finances, fundraising, marketing and public relations, concert production, administration, volunteers and human resources.   The annual budget is approximately $1.6M.
In collaboration with the Board, cultivate donors and sources of contributions to support the organization.  Advise the Board about opportunities that could promote the orchestra’s objectives, and successfully merge practical business acumen with creativity in fundraising. The California Symphony Endowment Fund is currently valued at $1.8M.
Promote the image of the CSO by publicly articulating and supporting the mission, vision, programs, and impact of the organization.  Act as spokesperson in collaboration with the Music Director and Board President and maintain effective communications and public relations with the press, donors, funders, community groups, and volunteers.
In collaboration with the Board, develop and implement current and long-range plans to ensure the effective administration and operation of the CSO.
“Own” the success of the CSO while at the same time accepting and acting upon both positive and constructive feedback.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES.

This position will act as the supervisor for the other members of the California Symphony Administrative Staff and will serve as a Management Representative for Collective Bargaining with the American Federation of Musicians and the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees.

EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE.

At least five (5) years of related experience in a senior management role, preferably in a non-profit organization.  Demonstrated understanding of the complex nature of arts organizations and familiarity with orchestral music.

Experience and demonstrated success in managing projects related to institutional image building, marketing, external relations and fundraising.

A four-year baccalaureate degree is required.  MBA preferred.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

This position requires excellent speaking and presentation skills, as well as the ability to communicate in writing to subscribers, donors, board members, volunteers, sponsors, community leaders, administrative staff and the general public.