EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR JOB DESCRIPTION

San Jose Youth Symphony

JOB TITLE:                        Executive Director          

REPORTS TO:                        Board of Directors

DATE AVAILABLE:  March 2003

JOB SUMMARY: The Executive Director is responsible for managing the human, financial and physical resources of the San Jose Youth Symphony in order to achieve the orchestra's mission.  To that end, the Executive Director is responsible and accountable for administering all aspects of the organization, for implementing the policies set by the Board of Directors, and supervising the part-time staff and volunteers.  The Executive Director serves as the chief operating officer of SJYS, working closely with the Music Director and reporting to the Board of Directors.

HISTORY:  Founded some 40 years ago, the San Jose Youth Symphony serves 220 youth in five ensembles: two full orchestras, two string ensembles and one percussion ensemble. Its mission is to provide talented young musicians of all backgrounds with exceptional musical training and experiences, which foster and encourage the study, appreciation, and creation of music.  The SJYS goal is to become the leading music education organization in the Silicon Valley and to provide the community with the support it needs to expand musical education and make it available to all students.

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Artistic Administration/Concert Production/Orchestra Personnel

·        Develop and implement annual master plan for orchestra operations, including rehearsal schedules, local and out-of-town concerts, special events, and broadcasts

·        Responsible for overall operations of the organization, including rehearsals, sectionals, concerts, camp and tours.

·        Consult with the Music Director in the selection of sectional coaches, audition judges, guest artists/conductors, performing groups, and concert repertoire; negotiate all contracts within budget parameters set by the Board.

Marketing and Promotion/Communications

·        Develop and implement a marketing plan for subscription campaigns and for individual performances.

·        Maintain relationship with media contacts; generate feature stories in print and broadcast media about the orchestra.

·        Ensure effective communication with the Youth Symphony’s constituencies.

Finance

·        Prepare and submit for approval annual operating budgets.  Monitor and authorize expenditures in accordance with approved budget; prepare updated projections based on actual income and expense activity.

·        Ensure that accounts and financial records are maintained, regular financial statements are prepared, and all reporting requirements are met.

Board of Directors/Planning/Strategic Affairs

·        Oversee all fundraising and development efforts.

·        Collaborate with the Music Director and Board in the development and implementation of a master plan for the orchestra.

·        Work closely with the Board and Music Director in long-range planning, including financial forecasts.

·         Advise the Board on matters within the Executive Director's scope of responsibilities.

·        Attend all meetings of the Board and Executive Committee as ex-officio member.

·        Help to identify and recruit qualified candidates for Board membership; assist with new member orientation.

·        Stay abreast of activities and developments in the orchestra field, especially youth orchestras; advise the Board of matters that may be helpful to promote the orchestra's objectives

Administrative

·        Manage the business and administrative affairs of the organization.

·        Recruit, select, and supervise administrative staff and volunteers. 

Qualifications

·        Bachelor’s degree or equivalent; strong leadership and effective human relations skills; strong communication skills; organizational skills; 5 years’ experience in arts management, preferably with another performing arts organization, or comparable experience; a love of music and a belief in music education. Direct experience working and/or playing with an orchestra. Knowledge of QuickBooks and proper database management. Current knowledge of local non-profit fundraising environment will be helpful.

To Apply

Send cover letter, resume and references to:  San Jose Youth Symphony, Search Committee, 595 Park Avenue, Suite 302, San Jose, CA 95110, by email at sjys@sjys.org or by fax at (408) 885-9230.