Executive Director

The Executive Director of the Michigan Philharmonic is a visionary leader responsible for the overall strategic direction, financial health, and operational management of the organization, working closely with the Music Director & Conductor and Board of Directors to achieve the orchestra’s artistic and community engagement goals. This role oversees the major aspects of the organization including fundraising, marketing, audience development, community outreach, and administrative functions, ensuring the orchestra maintains a high-quality artistic standard while building a sustainable future.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Planning and Leadership:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive strategic plan aligned with the orchestra’s mission and vision. 
• Lead the organization’s long-term vision and strategic direction, fostering a culture of artistic excellence and community engagement. 
• Oversee all aspects of the organization’s operations, including marketing, fundraising, and administration and general organizational programming. 

 Financial Management:

• Working with the Board Treasurer and Bookkeeper - Manage the organization’s budget, ensuring financial sustainability and responsible resource allocation. 
• Develop and execute fundraising strategies to secure individual, corporate, and grant funding. 
• Oversee financial reporting and analysis to inform decision-making. 

Artistic Collaboration:

• Partner and work creatively with the Music Director in fulfillment of the artistic mission.
• Support the Music Director’s programming and artistic vision by helping to curate the concert seasons, discussing programming and repertoire for marketability and funding, and arranging all logistics and final contracts for guest artists. 
• Long-range artistic planning
• Support the development of new artistic initiatives and community engagement programs. 
• Within budgetary and artistic guidelines established by the Board of Directors, supervise negotiation of terms and conditions of engagement for all members of the artistic staff and the Musicians Union for the orchestra’s collective bargaining agreement.

Marketing and Communications:

• Develop and implement marketing strategies to build audience awareness and engagement. 
• Manage the orchestra’s brand identity and public image through effective communication channels. 
• Oversee all marketing materials, website, and social media presence. 

 Community Engagement:

• Foster strong relationships with community partners, sponsors, and stakeholders. 
• Develop and execute educational outreach programs to engage diverse audiences. 
• Advocate for the arts and the importance of our orchestra within the community. 

 Board Relations:

• Collaborate with the Board of Directors to set strategic priorities and ensure effective governance. 
• Prepare regular reports for the Board on the organization’s financial and operational performance.