Executive Director

The Fischoff National Chamber Music Association seeks an Executive Director to lead the organization into its next chapter of growth and success. As the largest and most prestigious chamber music competition in the United States and a recognized global leader in chamber music education and performance, Fischoff is committed to advancing its mission of excellence, educating the next generation of musicians, and instilling a love of chamber music.

The Executive Director will serve as the chief administrative officer of the organization, reporting to the Board of Directors and working closely with its committees, staff, and Artistic Director. This individual will drive Fischoff’s fundraising efforts, manage its financial sustainability, and oversee its programming, operations, and strategic direction. The Executive Director must bring a passion for classical music, outstanding leadership skills, and a proven ability to grow organizational impact on both local and national levels.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Fundraising & Financial Sustainability:
•Lead and execute all fundraising initiatives for annual operating funds, with a focus on growing individual, corporate, and grant contributions.
•Cultivate relationships with current and prospective donors, sponsors, and national funding sources to build a sustainable donor base and grow Fischoff’s endowment fund.
•Serve as the primary driver of donor relations and engagement strategies, including stewardship, major gift solicitation, and donor communications.
•Explore and implement new revenue streams to support Fischoff’s programming and strategic priorities.

Organizational Leadership & Strategic Execution:
•Collaborate with the Board of Directors to implement strategic goals, aligning with Fischoff’s mission and values.
• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the organization, including financial management, staff oversight, and logistical planning.
• Develop and execute a dynamic, actionable vision for Fischoff that sustains its global reputation as the premiere chamber music competition while innovating for future growth.
• Represent Fischoff as its public face, engaging with local and national stakeholders to strengthen partnerships and elevate the organization’s profile.
• Partner with Fischoff’s board committees to lead and implement initiatives that broaden engagement with underserved and under-resourced communities locally and globally.

Program Management & Collaboration:
• Support the staff in their execution of the annual competition, education outreach programs, and other initiatives.
• Ensure high-quality programming, including maintaining the integrity and excellence of the competition and outreach programs, while identifying opportunities to expand impact.
• Foster collaboration and teamwork among Fischoff’s Board of Directors, volunteers, and community stakeholders.

Community Engagement & Visibility:
• Actively engage in the local South Bend and greater Michiana communities to build relationships and secure support for Fischoff.
• Serve as an advocate for Fischoff’s mission within regional cultural and business networks while also driving national and global visibility.

Key Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• A minimum of 5 years of leadership experience in arts administration, with a strong track record in fundraising preferred.
• Knowledge and appreciation of classical music, particularly chamber music required, with connections in the music industry or classical music community preferred.
• Ability to develop and execute successful fundraising campaigns, including major gifts, corporate sponsorships, grants, and endowments preferred.
• Strong organizational and financial management skills, with experience overseeing budgets, staff, and strategic planning required.
•Conversant in project management software and committed to using programs such as Monday.com, Google Workplace, and Microsoft Office, and other technological advancements preferred.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build collaborative relationships with diverse stakeholders required.
• Willing to commit to Fischoff’s mission, vision, and values required.

Key Personal Attributes:
•Engaging personality with the ability to inspire confidence and trust.
•Highly collaborative and approachable, with strong listening skills and an openness to input from others.
•Detail-oriented and results-driven, with organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
•Passionate about Fischoff’s mission and the transformative power of chamber music.

Compensation & Benefits:
The salary for this position will be competitive with arts organizations of similar size and scope, commensurate with experience. Benefits include a retirement plan with a 3% employer match and vacation benefits.

Location:
The Executive Director must primarily reside in the greater Michiana area to foster strong local community relationships.

About Fischoff:
Founded in 1973 and based in South Bend, Indiana, the Fischoff Competition is the largest chamber music competition in the nation, and the country’s longest consecutively running competition. Each year, an average of 125 ensembles representing more than 30 nationalities participate, with alumni advancing to distinguished careers in music performance and education.
Fischoff’s commitment to education and outreach is unparalleled, bringing free, innovative music programs to over 100,000 children through its Arts-in-Education Residency programs since 1995. For more information, visit www.fischoff.org.