Logo
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

Director- Orchestra Personnel and Operations (WNO)

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Washington, District of Columbia, us, 20022

Save Job

Overview

Director- Orchestra Personnel and Operations (WNO) at The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. About The Washington National Opera: In 1956, the sound of opera rang out in DC, heralding the birth of a new company. Washington National Opera is now one of the nation's leading opera companies and plays to standing room audiences in the Kennedy Center. Kennedy Center Mission Statement: As America's performing arts center, and a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy, we are a leader for the arts across the United States and around the world, connecting the greatest living artists with audiences of every stripe, no matter their background. Why Join Us: We offer a total rewards package to all full-time employees to include benefits such as retirement, PSLF eligibility, commuter programs, paid leave, holidays, and health plans with FSA/HSA options. Job Description

The Director of Orchestra Personnel and Operations (DOPO) provides leadership and oversees orchestra management and production operations, guided by the vision and strategies in the Kennedy Center’s Strategic Plan. A key member of the Planning and Operations teams, the position: 1) Serves as an advocate for the Orchestra and nurtures a strong rapport with union and Orchestra leadership; 2) Serves as the primary contractual liaison for all orchestra engagements with the Kennedy Center and Washington National Opera. The Director of Orchestra Personnel and Operations will be a collaborative and dedicated leader with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. A people-oriented leader and persuasive communicator, they will be comfortable interacting with multiple constituencies and easily adapt to differing situations. Resourceful and flexible, they will possess excellent organizational and project management skills. Key Responsibilities

Personnel Management

In managing the 60-70 member Kennedy Center Opera House Orchestra (KCOHO) and Washington National Opera Orchestra (WNOO), shape a work environment that supports healthy relationships among all internal constituents, while advancing strategies and processes that support the continued artistic growth of the orchestras. Manage the Orchestra operations team and oversee functions and related activities of the KCOHO library. Strategy & Operations

The role works autonomously with little to no oversight within the guidelines of the CBA. This role will assess programming for the orchestral needs for all relevant shows (over 50% of all KC yearly performances), which includes defining orchestral requirements and then ensures all requirements are met. Develops the orchestra schedules, creates the rehearsal and performance plots, outlines the instrumentation requirements, and then oversees the implementation and execution of all KCOHO/WNOO services. Create and oversee the Orchestra calendar, utilizing Orchestra services in the most effective manner and in accordance with two distinct Collective Bargaining Agreements. This requires extensive cross-departmental collaboration and communication with visiting companies. With KC and WNO leadership, and working with artistic and production teams, oversee the production of all KCOHO/WNOO programs. Research, draft, plan, and execute all Media related work under the appropriate AFM media agreements and ensure correct reporting and payments. Guide the Orchestra Personnel team on sensitive personnel matters that impact programs or that have contractual and financial implications. Provide show coverage as needed. Collective Bargaining

Manage collective bargaining process with Local 161-710 of the American Federation of Musicians, in collaboration with Center’s Office of General Counsel. Organize, advise, and support strategic approach, financial modeling, and operationalization for collective bargaining process, working closely with Kennedy Center. Ensure productive negotiations that advance the mission, vision, and goals of the organizations, and that maintain a harmonious relationship with the musicians and union leaders. Budget Management

This role oversees, allocates, and manages the expense budgets for KCOHO and WNOO, which includes projecting, updating, and maintaining roughly $8 million in expense. This role is responsible for the financial governance as well as creation and maintenance of policies for the guaranteed hours and monies outlined in the two CBAs as well as department budgets. Communications

Serves as the primary management liaison with the Orchestra Committee, Artistic Liaison Committee, other various orchestra committees, and AFM Local 161-710. Communicate with the Orchestra regarding concert operations and high level personnel policies. Interface with visiting companies, conductors, and artists, demonstrating a commitment to collaboration and artistic quality. Serve as primary contractual liaison and strengthen mutually beneficial relationships with all artistic departments at the Kennedy Center. Additional Responsibilities

Attend concerts and events frequently to gain additional insight into the performance of the Orchestra, sharing perspectives and observations with KC and WNO leadership and Music Directors. Participate actively or collaborate with national organizations to stay informed of trends and activities in the orchestra and performing arts sector. Perform other duties as needed or directed. Qualifications:

Key Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in music, orchestra management, arts management or a related discipline required. A minimum of five years of experience in a senior-level position with an orchestra or performing arts organization is required. Working knowledge of the performing arts field is preferred. Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills; ability to work effectively with professional musicians and music professionals. Experience navigating complex relationships, managing priorities, and mediating conflict. Experience with collective bargaining units and bargaining process highly preferred. Candidate must be local or willing to relocate to the DMV area. Relocation assistance is not provided. Must be willing to work onsite. Benefits

Staff offers for discount tickets Retirement plan with organization matching (after 1 year of employment) Qualifying employer for the Public Student Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) Commuter programs including pre-tax options for discounted parking and SmartBenefits (WMATA) Annual Leave, Sick Leave, and Personal Days available immediately upon hire 11 paid holidays per year Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits with FSA and HSA options Notes: This posting is active and not expired.

#J-18808-Ljbffr