Description
PYSO seeks a leader with a strong appreciation and knowledge of music. A successful ED will understand current trends in orchestral education and effectively serve as the public face of the organization. The multi-faceted responsibilities of this position require an individual with demonstrated leadership skills and management experience; a leader who has the ability to build and coordinate a cohesive team; who can work effectively with board and community members; and who will collaborate with artistic personnel to ensure the integrity and growth of orchestral programming. In tandem with the PYSO’s small but strong team, the ED will strive to uphold the mission of the orchestra providing operational oversight and coordination to programs that further the proficiency and performance quality of young classical musicians. This new leader will drive organizational success, from both a programmatic and fundraising perspective.
PYSO’s general operating budget is approximately $450-500K annually (roughly $1.2 million in a tour season). The ED reports to a Board of Directors and supervises a staff of 2-3, along with various coaches as needed.
The ED is primarily responsible for the following:
Organizational Leadership and Management
Ensure that the organization effectively achieves its mission by providing oversight of day-to-day operations, human resources, fiscal management, and programming.
Establish and effectively execute an annual operating plan which strengthens organizational success and sustainability.
Develop and manage PYSO’s annual budget and year-round programming to establish a clear and sustainable financial model.
Create a workplace that is collaborative, professional, and positive.
Artistic and Program Administration
Coordinate, integrate, and manage the delivery of all music and educational programs. Guide staff and Board in the creation, implementation, and monitoring of PYSO’s artistic, educational, and creative youth development objectives.
Work in collaboration with the Program Director and Music Director to innovate and ensure excellence and engagement with a diverse group of youth and young adults.
Develop an annual plan for performance operations, including rehearsal schedules, concerts, touring, program themes and ideas, special events, and audience development.
In consultation with the Music Director:
Work toward selecting and creating effective programming for each concert season
Select guest artists, guest conductors, coaches that support PYSO’s artistic and educational objectives.
Seek and obtain new opportunities for performances by the PYSO and the small ensembles that it sponsors.
Recruit talented orchestra members and build participation in programming.
Revenue Generation and Community Relations
Develop and implement a fundraising strategy that will identify and cultivate potential opportunity for advancement as well as build on existing relationships with individuals and organizations.
Work closely with funders to ensure the ongoing engagement and stewardship of existing donors.
Lead all aspects of the grant process, including research, writing, submission, and reporting.
Actively seek, identify, and explore the viability of powerful partnerships that advance music in our communities.
Effectively engage with all PYSO’s constituent groups: student musicians, parents, the community at large, alumni, coaches, schools, volunteer groups, and other arts organizations.
Develop and implement a marketing plan that seeks to elevate PYSO’s community visibility and interest.
Board Relations
Act as primary liaison to the Board of Directors, engaging Board members in the current and future needs of the organization and ensuring the Board is able to fulfill its oversight responsibilities.
Develop, maintain, and support an increasingly diverse PYSO Board of Directors. Understand how to maximize the resources of the Board and seek their involvement in policy decisions, fundraising, and strategic planning.
Participate in Board recruitment and collaborate with Board leadership to promote governance best practices.
Manage the tasks required for orchestra international tours (currently scheduled every 3 years). Collaborate with the Tour Committee on the oversight of the tour budget and funding, review of proposals and itineraries, and selection of the tour destination. Visit potential international venues.
Requirements
A leader in music, the ED of the PYSO will have a compassionate and collaborative spirit. PYSO’s leader will be committed to achieving artistic excellence as well as contributing to the holistic growth and well-being of orchestra members. All candidates should excel in nonprofit management and relationship cultivation. The position requires a forward-thinking, entrepreneurial leader with deep understanding of music education, current trends in youth orchestral education, and the ability to establish community partnerships. Concrete demonstrable experience, competencies, and qualifications include:
Prior experience in arts production or event management is preferred.
Knowledge of orchestral music and programming is preferred.
Passion to work with and inspire young people; interest in exploring innovative, contemporary approaches in order to ensure program relevance.
Demonstrated success coordinating a collaborative team. Experience in hiring, managing, and retaining talented staff.
Ability to serve as an ambassador for the PYSO. Strong written and verbal communication skills, as well as public speaking ability.
Ability to serve as the organization’s primary fundraiser. Proven fundraising success and grant management experience is strongly preferred.
Past success working with a Board of Directors; the ability to cultivate existing board member relationships and build an effective and diverse team.
Strong organizational leadership skills, with an ability to articulate a clear and inspiring vision and strategy for the PYSO while encouraging collaboration and building consensus. Proficiency with technologies in music and virtual programming is preferred.
Engage with student musicians and parents regularly through attendance of rehearsals, etc. PYSO operates a flexible schedule. Evening and weekend hours are often required, especially during concert seasons.
Experience developing and adhering to budgets and maintaining financial records.
START DATE:
Ideally by June 1, 2026, with possible participation in PYSO’s international concert tour of Greece June 16-27, 2026.
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
To apply, please submit a cover letter, résumé, to PYSO Search Committee via email at info@pyso.org. Please include “Executive Director Search” in the subject of the email.
APPLICATIONS ARE DUE BY April 10, 2026 at 5PM
