Job Title: Director of Artistic Operations                                                                       Reports to: CEO

 A Rare Opportunity to Shape the Future of a Leading Symphony

As Charleston continues to grow into a dynamic cultural hub, the Charleston Symphony (CSO) is embracing an ambitious vision for the future—one that elevates artistic excellence, deepens community impact, and ensures long-term sustainability. With the region’s population projected to surpass one million by 2028, the CSO is committed to serving as a cultural leader, fostering transformative musical experiences, and expanding access to the arts for all.

Rooted in nearly 90 years of history, the CSO is at the forefront of innovation in orchestral music, driven by our core values of excellence, collaboration, and integrity. Our musicians, staff, and supporters are united by a belief in the power of music to inspire, unite, and enrich lives. Through world-class performances, educational initiatives that reach over 20,000 students annually, and a steadfast commitment to artistic and financial growth, we are shaping the future of orchestral music in Charleston and beyond.

The CSO is at a pivotal moment, solidifying its place as a premier cultural institution and an industry leader in redefining how a modern symphony serves its community. With ambitious goals for artistic growth, operational excellence, and community impact, the CSO seeks a Director of Artistic Operations—a strategic, results-driven leader who excels at managing people, resources, and complex artistic operations.

The person in this position will take a leadership role in designing and executing innovative programming, overseeing all concert production and operations, and ensuring financial and logistical efficiency. As a thought leader and subject matter expert, this individual will bring deep industry knowledge and forward-thinking strategies to enhance the CSO’s artistic and operational impact. Working closely with the CEO, Artistic Director, musicians, and staff, this leader will balance artistic vision with sound operational strategy, driving the CSO’s success both on stage and behind the scenes. A key metric of success will be expanding and strengthening the CSO family—deepening engagement with musicians, audiences, donors, and community partners to foster long-term growth and sustainability.

The Opportunity: Build, Innovate, and Elevate

Duties and Responsibilities:

The Director of Artistic Operations will be the driving force behind the orchestra’s artistic execution and operational effectiveness. This leader will:

• Optimize programming and production frameworks to ensure artistic excellence and financial sustainability.
• Expand the orchestra’s impact through new concert formats, digital initiatives, and cross-sector collaborations.
• Oversee flawless concert production and operations, ensuring high standards while managing budgets and logistics.

Key Responsibilities

1. Artistic & Strategic Leadership
   1. Partner with the CEO and Artistic Director to develop and implement forward-thinking programming strategies.
   2. Drive new artistic initiatives that expand audience engagement and institutional visibility.
   3. Cultivate partnerships with media, technology, and cross-disciplinary collaborators to amplify the CSO’s artistic reach.
   4. Align artistic planning with operational efficiency, financial health, and institutional priorities.
2. Concert Production & Operations Management
   1. Lead all concert production and event logistics, including Masterworks, Pops, chamber music, education programs, and special events.
   2. Ensure seamless stage management, technical logistics, venue coordination, and contract execution.
   3. Manage rehearsal schedules, musician services, venue negotiations, equipment rentals, and licensing.
   4. Oversee guest artist coordination, hospitality, and contract execution.
   5. Innovate new concert experiences that enhance audience engagement and industry leadership.
3. Financial & Administrative Oversight
   1. Develop and manage budgets, schedules, and production timelines, balancing artistic ambition with financial responsibility.
   2. Maintain cost controls and efficiency measures to support long-term sustainability.
   3. Collaborate with Marketing and Advancement teams to align programming with revenue generation and audience development.
4. Team Leadership & Organizational Management
   1. Supervise and mentor a high-performing artistic operations team
   2. Foster a culture of teamwork, collaboration, and accountability across departments.
   3. Ensure clear communication and coordination between artistic, production, marketing, and fundraising teams.
5. Education & Community Engagement
   1. Support the CSO’s youth concerts, family programs, and community engagement initiatives.
   2. Partner with the Director of Education to implement impactful educational programs.
   3. Develop strategic partnerships to expand the CSO’s civic presence.

Who You Are: A Visionary, Connector, and Builder

• A proven leader who balances artistic creativity with operational discipline.
• A strategic thinker who can translate vision into action.
• A relationship builder who engages musicians, board members, civic leaders, and other stakeholders.
• A detail-driven executive who ensures excellence in execution, budget management, and team leadership.
• A passionate advocate for the power of symphonic music in a modern, evolving cultural landscape.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Music, Arts Administration, or a related field.
• 5+ years of leadership experience in artistic operations, concert production, or executive-level arts management.
• Deep knowledge of orchestral music, production logistics, and strategic programming.
• Proven experience managing teams, budgets, and complex projects in a high-performing arts environment.
• Strong understanding of stage management, technical production, and operational efficiency.
• Availability to work evenings and weekends for performances and events.

Why Join the Charleston Symphony?

This is a unique opportunity to lead the artistic operations of a dynamic, forward-thinking orchestra committed to artistic excellence and community impact.

• Be part of an ambitious, growth-oriented team shaping the future of symphonic music.
• Lead transformational artistic and operational initiatives that connect deeply to our community and elevate the CSO’s profile.
• Work in Charleston—a vibrant cultural city with rich history and coastal beauty.
• Enjoy a competitive salary and benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, and a 401k match.

If you are a strategic arts leader with a track record of operational excellence and artistic innovation, we invite you to apply and be part of the Charleston Symphony’s next chapter.

TO APPLY

Interested candidates should submit their resume and cover letter to hr@charlestonsymphony.org.