Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra
REPORTS TO: Chief Operating Officer
DIRECT REPORTS: Artistic Administrator, Librarians, Assistant Conductor, Symphony Chorus Manager, and Manager, IN UNISON Programs
POSITION SUMMARY: The Senior Director of Artistic Planning (SDAP), supports the artistic quality and aspirations of the SLSO and the artistic vision of Stéphane Denève, The Joseph and Emily Rauh Pulitzer Music Director. As a key collaborator of the Music Director, COO, and CEO, the SDAP is responsible for programming and administration of all SLSO artistic programs. The ideal candidate is passionate, creative, knowledgeable, fast-paced, and a self-starter with superb artistic intuition and connections, exceptional communication skills, and a proven track-record of effective and successful management of multiple projects simultaneously. The ability to inspire and empower collaborators both internally and externally, as well as firmly held values for and understanding of the importance of diversity and equity in the orchestral field is essential.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Plan all SLSO programs and engagement of guest conductors and artists in alignment with the Music Director’s artistic vision and within approved financial parameters. Develop and execute SLSO’s commissioning, media, residency, and touring strategies.
• Create engaging, relevant, and artistically significant programming for the SLSO in collaboration with the Music Director and in consultation with the CEO and COO; work closely with staff conductors and musicians, artists-in-residence, choral directors, and guest artists to deploy the finest experiences for the SLSO, its two choruses, and its audiences.
• Develop concert programs that stretch the musical boundaries of the SLSO while supporting revenue goals and audience development objectives; including but not limited to, classical subscription series, “SLSO presents” (Live at Powell Hall), media and recording projects, holiday programs, special concerts, residencies, and tours. Maximize artistic goals in alignment with SLSO’s strategic plan while balancing budgetary parameters.
• Cultivate a compelling and diverse array of guest artists, conductors, and repertoire across all programming, ensuring that the SLSO is well known for its artistic profile and as a destination for guest artists. Nurture deep relationships with agents, artists, publishers, and artistic partners.
• Supervise SLSO artist servicing in coordination with the Production/Operations teams.
• Inform and ensure accuracy of artistic budget, and oversee contract negotiation, administration, and expense tracking for all SLSO artistic programs.
• Supervise SLSO’s Artistic Administrator in the planning of all programming, including the Classical series, the Pulitzer series, Forest Park, holiday programming, and other special event concerts and initiatives.
• Support programming needs and guidance for education programs, community partnership endeavors, and the St. Louis Symphony Youth Orchestra.
• Serve as staff liaison to the Artistic Advisory Committee of the Orchestra.
• Inform and support Marketing and Philanthropic department efforts to promote and support all SLSO programs.
• Support and participate in rehearsal and performance operations related to guest artists and conductors, including hospitality and special events.
• Support and facilitate guest artist appearances to benefit institutional goals, when required, in other areas such as philanthropy, marketing, learning and community engagement; ensuring these engagements are part of contractual agreements
REQUIREMENTS:
• Passion for and deep knowledge of orchestral music, artists, and the symphonic industry.
• Enthusiasm for and interest in a broad array of musical styles, genres, and repertoire.
• Extensive knowledge of orchestral, operatic, and chamber repertoires. An advanced degree in music performance or music history desirable.
• 5 years of artistic planning and programming experience exemplifying a proven track-record of artistic quality, creativity, and innovation, preferably in an orchestral setting.
• Proven negotiation and contract administration skills.
• Well-developed critical thinking, communication, problem solving, research, and strategic planning skills.
• A team-oriented, inclusive, consistently positive, collaborative, professional demeanor, and demonstrated leadership skills.
• Ability to develop and sustain collaborative, productive, and professional relationships with internal and external colleagues and artists.
• Proven experience working regularly with artists and a current network of international and domestic artists and industry contacts.
• Technological proficiency is a must, including the ability to quickly learn and utilize new software applications; experience with ArtsVision a plus.
• Attention to detail and strong written communication with demonstrated ability to execute multiple plans effectively simultaneously and on-time in a fast-paced environment.
• Highly driven and proactive working style.
• Ability to work nights and weekends required.
• Possess a valid U.S. driver’s license and a good driving record.
BENEFITS & PERKS:
-Hybrid schedule
-Excellent medical (including domestic partner coverage), vision, dental, supplemental health plan.
-3 weeks’ vacation/PTO + 8 sick days.
-Fitness reimbursement.
-Retirement contribution.
-Discounted concert tickets; complimentary concert tickets when available
Please apply via our website HERE.
The SLSO embraces a world in which every life is enriched through the power of music. We are committed to cultivating a culture of inclusion and connectedness where a diverse team of employees can grow and thrive. The collective sum of our employees’ individual differences, experiences, knowledge, self-expression, and talent are represented in our culture, innovative spirit and the SLSO’s achievements. In recruiting for our team, we welcome candidates’ uniqueness in culture, social identities, expression, and viewpoints. The SLSO is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
