Vice President, Orchestra & Production

The Vice President of Orchestra and Production (VPOP) provides leadership and oversees orchestra management and concert production, guided by the vision and strategies in the CSO’s Strategic Plan. A member of the Senior Management team, the position: 1) serves as an advocate for the Orchestra and nurtures a strong rapport with union and Orchestra leadership; 2) produces an unparalleled concert experience for audiences that furthers the reputation of the CSO as a destination for musicians worldwide and as a community leader.

Duties and Responsibilities:
– A close partner to the COO, shape a work environment that supports healthy relationships among all internal constituents, while advancing the CSO’ vision to be the most relevant orchestra in America.
– Oversee the Orchestra calendar, utilizing Orchestra services in the most effective manner and in accordance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement, as well as the scheduling and confirmation of dates and calendar entries at Music Hall and other venues for all Orchestra services. With the artistic and operations teams, serve as primary management liaison with the Players Committee, various Orchestra committees, and AFM Local 1 as appropriate.
– With the artistic team and input from the Music Director and the COO, oversee the production of all CSO programs. Execute, plan and research the CSO’s media, residency and touring strategies.
– Attend concerts and events frequently to gain additional insight into the performance of the Orchestra, sharing perspectives and observations with the COO and Music Director.
– Lead and implement strategies, in collaboration with the Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer, to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion to address internal culture, accessibility, recruitment, and retention of Orchestra and operations personnel, and other areas relevant to the operations of the organization.
– Oversee the preparation of and monitor budgets for concert productions, as well as departmental budgets including Orchestra overhead, stage crews and operations.
– Guide the Director of Orchestra Personnel on sensitive personnel matters that impact programs and interface with artists.
– Provide advice and support to the COO in the CSO’s collective bargaining process with Local 1 of the American Federation of Musicians, and lead the CSO’s collective bargaining process with Local 5 IATSE, ensuring productive negotiations that advance the mission, vision, and goals of the organization, and that maintain a harmonious relationship with the musicians and union leaders.
– Oversee functions and related activities of the Orchestra library.
– Communicate with the Orchestra regarding concert operations.
– Serve as primary contractual liaison and strengthen mutually beneficial relationships with Cincinnati Opera and Cincinnati Ballet. Partner with COO on any re-negotiation of relationship agreements.
– Participate actively or collaborate with national organizations such as the League of American Orchestras, the American Federation of Musicians, and the International Conference of Symphony and Orchestra Musicians to stay informed of trends and general activities in the orchestra and performing arts sector.
– Perform other duties as needed or directed.

Reports To: Chief Operating Officer (COO)
Direct Reports: Director of Orchestra Personnel, Director of Operations, Principal Librarian

Requirements: A minimum of seven years of experience in a director or senior-level position with an orchestra or performing arts organization is required. Qualified candidates will demonstrate extensive knowledge of orchestral music, awareness of current trends and best practices in orchestra management, and a keen interest in collaborating with musicians. Successful candidates will also have experience successfully managing in a complex, fast paced organization with multiple programs, venues, entities and events.

The Vice President of Orchestra & Production will be a collaborative and dedicated leader with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. A people-oriented leader and persuasive communicator, they will be comfortable interacting with multiple constituencies and easily adapt to differing situations. Resourceful and flexible, they will possess excellent organizational and project management skills. They will demonstrate a commitment to advancing the values of diversity, equity and inclusion.