Website Detroit Symphony Orchestra
PRODUCTION MANAGER JOB DESCRIPTION
Department: Operations
FLSA Status: Exempt
Work Location: Primarily onsite with occasional remote work
FT/PT: Full-time
Last Revision Date: July 26, 2024
How to apply: A cover letter is required for consideration of this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address:
Your specific interest in the position and working at the Detroit Symphony Orchestra
Outline your skills and experience that directly relate to the responsibilities of the role
The Organization: The Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO) is known internationally for trailblazing performances, collaborations with the world’s foremost musical artists, and a deep commitment to serving our community. Making its home in historic Orchestra Hall at the Max M. and Marjorie S. Fisher Music Center, the DSO actively pursues its vision to be an inclusive and culturally relevant community where all people can experience their world through music.
The DSO is a complex organization. Operating 365 days per year in historic Orchestra Hall, one of America’s most acoustically perfect concert halls, we are a performing arts institution, an educational facility, and a community center. We are governed by an independent Board of Directors and employ both union and non-union employees as musicians, stage crew, and administrative staff. Creating a unified culture throughout the institution is an organizational imperative, and we are guided by our values of excellence, diversity, resilience, collaboration, and innovation. The DSO is also deeply invested in the city of Detroit; through our Detroit Strategy initiative, we are expanding the DSO’s participation in the growth and well-being of the city.
The DSO’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is paramount to who we are; we work to create an environment where all employees are seen, valued, and supported to enable their best every day. This is essential as we pursue our mission to impact lives through unforgettable musical experiences by sustaining a world class orchestra for the city of Detroit and the global community.
The DSO offers a unique, fast-paced working environment, an excellent overall compensation package, and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. For more information visit www.dso.org.
Position Summary: The Production Manager serves as the primary production administrator and is an integral member of the Artistic Operations Department. This is an essential operational position responsible for overseeing the logistical needs of the orchestra and staff for all DSO orchestral and non-orchestral events and providing administrative support for the Artistic Operations Department.
The Production Manager will act as a liaison with staff, DSO musicians, guest artists, venues, stage crew, and partners. This position requires a high level of professionalism, tact and integrity due to the frequency of internal/external contacts and exposure to confidential information.
Specific Duties and Responsibilities:
Oversees the production and logistical details of various multi-faceted projects managed by the Operations Department including all orchestra and select non-orchestral presentations including but not limited to the Paradise Jazz Series and Special Presentations without orchestra.
Works with the Stage Manager to ensure that all contractual production and tech rider needs are fulfilled.
Collects and enters artist and event information into OPAS, Momentus Elite, and event sheets. Prepares reports as needed by researching, gathering, and summarizing information verbally and in writing.
Attends weekly events meetings as the representative for the Artistic Operations Department.
Collects, prepares, and disseminates information to members of the Orchestra and staff. This includes directions to off-site orchestra concert venues and community partner locations.
Supports the Orchestra Manager in making logistical arrangements for orchestra travel and orchestra-related activity taking place outside of the Max M. and Marjorie S. Fisher Music Center. Prepares questionnaires relating to out-of-town services and tours.
Manages all operations related to the involvement of choirs in DSO performances including but not limited to scheduling and providing on-site logistical support.
Prepares welcome remarks for all DSO concerts on stage, working with the Advancement Department to correctly recognize sponsors.
Manages all Operations Department expenses, contracts, and payments and maintains Operations Department expense tracking document.
Works in close collaboration with Stage Manager to ensure proper budgeting and staffing of IATSE personnel.
Manages all passenger and small cargo vehicle rentals for all concerts.
Coordinates artist approvals for on-demand streaming and handles tracking of artist streaming terms.
Establishes and maintains effective record-keeping and filing systems that can be utilized by the entire Artistic Operations department.
Organizes and expedites the ongoing flow of work through the Artistic Operations department.
Supports the Orchestra Personnel Office during audition days.
Serves as Manager on Duty as assigned for presentations with and without the Orchestra.
Assists in proofreading Performance Magazine, season brochures, and other marketing materials.
Prepares visa petitions for guest artists as needed.
Assists with artist care as needed.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications:
3+ years professional experience in orchestra administration, including experience working with IATSE stage crew
Thorough knowledge of classical and non-classical music and technical practices. Ability to read music
Familiarity with symphony orchestra structure
Strong written and verbal communication, editing skills, as well as interpersonal, leadership and organizational skills
Must demonstrate meticulous attention to detail and flawless execution. Must use tact, discretion and diplomacy while maintaining confidentiality
Ability to work with a broad spectrum of personalities, exhibit patience and understanding, and be decisive in reaching and implementing decisions
Problem solving, flexibility, and the ability to work under pressure.
Demonstrated proficiency in PC network environment and experience with Microsoft 365 and Windows software. Ability to act independently, take initiative, and meet changing priorities
Successful experience working in, and contributing to, a collaborative, team environment
Desired Qualifications:
5+ years of professional experience in orchestra administration, including experience working with IATSE stage crew
Proficiency with OPAS
Proficiency with Momentus Elite
Demonstrated experience and investment in issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion
Additional Information:
This is a salaried, non-union position
Successful candidates must be available to work a varying schedule, including nights and weekends, to meet the needs of the DSO’s performance schedule
All positions at the DSO require the successful completion of a background check prior to beginning employment. A criminal record does not automatically disqualify candidates.
Physical Requirements:
This role primarily works in an office environment, and frequently has prolonged periods of sitting and looking at a computer screen. Additional physical requirements include:
Never
0%
Seldom
5% – 25%
Occasionally
26% – 50%
Periodically
51% – 75%
Frequently
76% – 100%
Standing
x
Walking
x
Prolonged Sitting
x
Lifting/carrying up to 10 lbs.
x
Lifting/carrying 10 – 25 lbs.
x
Lifting/carrying 26 – 50 lbs.
x
Lifting/carrying more than 50 lbs.
x
Pushing/Pulling
x
Climbing
x
Stooping/Kneeling/Crouching/
Crawling
x
Reaching
x
Manual dexterity
x
Driving a Motorized Vehicle
x
Repetitive Motions
x
Position Reports to: Orchestra Manager
Direct Reports: N/A
To apply for this job please visit www.dso.org.