Director of Operations

The Director of Operations reports to the Senior Vice President & General Manager (SVP/GM) and is responsible for the overall execution of concerts and events, which includes: calendar development and scheduling, budget building and management, concert production, contract management, performance-related media activity, and touring and runouts.  This position ensures that the highest standards of professionalism and excellence are maintained for all Grand Rapids Symphony productions by overseeing the execution of operational details in support of the “big picture.” This role also provides intra-departmental backup support for the Orchestra Personnel Manager in payroll reporting for CBA compliance.

This is a full-time, exempt position that requires regular availability during evenings and weekends.

Key Responsibilities

Orchestra Operations

• Oversee day-to-day aspects of concert execution for all events on the Orchestra’s calendar.
• Works closely with GRS Music Director and other artistic leaders, including guest conductors and guest artists on details of concert production and other logistics to ensure performances are executed to the highest possible standard.
• Responsible for the development and management of the symphony’s master calendar in collaboration with SVP/GM and Artistic leadership, and consistent with the GRS's collective bargaining agreement, agreements with other unions and facilities, and GRS contracts with conductors and guest artists.
• Serve as the primary day-to-day contact with performance venues in matters relating to scheduling, operations, and production, working proactively and collaboratively with managers at DeVos Performance Hall, St. Cecilia Music Center, and all other Symphony performance venues, seeking to reach consistently high performance outcomes while maintaining a professional work environment.
• Serve as the initial point of contact for advancing shows, and delegating responsibilities across the department to successfully complete each performance.
• For outdoor events, responsible for monitoring weather, coordinating emergency personnel, and ensuring safety of all involved with the event.

• Establish a rotating schedule of concert "Manager on Duty" (MOD) assignments and serve as MOD within that rotation.

Leadership & Administration

• Directly supervise the Production Stage Manager and Artistic Operations Manager.
• Oversee and support the communication of concert information to venue staff, stage crew, musicians, and GRS staff. 
• Oversee the execution and tracking of all artist and venue contracts and ensure compliance with all agreements. 
• Collaborate across departments to ensure seamless execution of various needs and efforts of all activities related to concert production.
• Establish, support and build effective working relationships between staff and musicians, maintaining responsiveness to all.

• Cross train with Personnel Manager to provide backup capability for musician payroll information and ensure payment in compliance with the Master Agreement, in case of Personnel Manager’s absence.

Budgeting/Planning

• Work with SVP/GM and production staff to develop, monitor, and maintain budgets and expense reporting for all orchestra programs and activities.
• Manage expenses while always seeking efficient use of Symphony resources.

• Advise on artistically and commercially beneficial opportunities throughout West Michigan and beyond.
• All other duties as assigned.

Skills & Qualifications

• 5+ years of progressively responsible experience in orchestra operations, production, or closely related field.
• In-depth knowledge of orchestral operations, and a musical background is expected. 
• Highly organized, with high standards for quality and impeccable attention to detail.
• Resourceful team player with problem solving ability and demonstrated written and verbal communication skills.  Must have a great ability to multi-task, be a creative problem-solver, and an ability to work through stress filled moments.
• Capacity to work effectively under pressure to support creation of the best product for the organization while meeting established deadlines. 
• The ability to represent the organization in a variety of situations and to effectively communicate and work cooperatively and with flexibility with people of various backgrounds, including all levels of Symphony staff, board, donors and volunteers while maintaining tact, diplomacy and confidentiality is essential.
• Eagerness to work within an organizational philosophy that stresses the importance of open communication, teamwork, confidentiality, and the desire to meet rising expectations. 
• Ability to interact constructively with a broad range of constituents: conductors, musicians, staff, vendors, stage crew and others. 
• Solution oriented with the ability to elevate co-workers to be more effective.
• Computer skills including competency with Microsoft Office Suite and OPAS is a plus.

• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required.

What We’re Offering

• Salary: Commensurate with Experience.
• Benefits include health, vision, and dental insurance, LTD and Life Insurance, generous paid time off and holiday schedule, subsidized downtown parking and 401k.
• Variety - every day is different, and creativity is encouraged!