Operations Manager - St. Louis Symphony Orchestra

REPORTS TO: Vice President of Operations

POSITION SUMMARY: Join the SLSO during one of the most thrilling times in the history of the orchestra as we return to the beautifully renovated Powell Hall for our 2025-2026 season. This is an opportunity to create a lasting impact on audiences and the St. Louis community.

The Operations Manager manages and supports a variety of activities and projects within the Artistic and Operations department, including orchestra services, electronic media activities, touring activities, project management for special performances, and collaborations outside of Powell. In consultation with the Chief Operating Officer, Vice President of Operations, and department directors, s/he will also hold responsibility for drafting the orchestra and venue calendars and troubleshooting scheduling issues with a variety of constituents to maximize efficiency and service utilization. This position works closely with the Vice President of Operations and provides integral cross-departmental support to the Artistic and Operations department.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

-Manage the orchestra calendar, maximizing service utilization and troubleshooting to ensure compliance with all CBA terms and other constraints.

-Coordinate operational requirements and logistics for orchestra services, including rehearsals, concerts, and other events.

-Manage the master calendar for spaces in Powell Hall, including Stage, Lobby, Foyer, Met Bar, Whitaker Room, Donor Lounge, dressing rooms, warm up rooms, Education and Learning Center, and other event spaces as needed for activities of resident ensembles (St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, St. Louis Symphony Chorus, St. Louis Symphony IN UNISON Chorus, St. Louis Symphony Youth Orchestra), other internal constituent groups, non-orchestra presentations and hall rentals.

-Ensure CBA compliance and maximize efficiency of scheduling with regards to IATSE Local No. 6 (stagehands) and other labor.

-In collaboration with the Chief Operating Officer, support the Orchestra’s electronic media activities and initiatives, including broadcasts, audio/video projects, and commercial recording projects, reviewing licensing agreements, liaising with the applicable orchestra committees (Media, Recording Evaluation and Sound Archives committees), and ensuring compliance with CBA terms and national agreements. Provide operations and production assistance for SLSO digital concert series.

-In coordination with the Vice President of Operations, determine feasible scheduling for Orchestra runouts/residencies/tours, electronic media projects and special events.  Manage the planning and execution of the orchestra’s domestic and international touring, residencies, run-out concerts, fee engagements, and other special projects outside of Powell Hall (in collaboration with the Vice President of Operations and associated musicians committees).

-Manage the planning and execution of Opera Theatre of Saint Louis (OTSL) collaborations, to ensure compliance with all contract terms and other constraints. As needed, provide support for the negotiation of the multi-year contractual agreement.

-Assist the Vice President of Operations in the preparation of the Operations budgets for recording/media, OTSL, and special projects including fee engagements, tours, run-out concerts, and residencies.

-As needed, provide operational support to other SLSO ensembles, including St. Louis Symphony Youth Orchestra, St. Louis Symphony Chorus, and St. Louis Symphony IN UINSON Chorus.

-Participate in duty rotation to include ensuring compliance with the collective-bargaining agreement with IATSE Locals No. 6

-Serve as a system administrator for ArtsVision.

-Perform other duties as needed or directed.

QUALIFICATIONS:

-A strong working knowledge of orchestral repertoire, artists, and general operational practices, with additional focus on functions of touring, scheduling, and electronic media. 

-A bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience, preferably in music or arts management, with 3-5 years+ of operations experience with a professional orchestra, opera company, music festival, or entertainment venue.

-Familiarity with ArtsVision and the ability to read music is preferred. Proficiency in a PC network environment and with Microsoft Office software required.

-Excellent verbal and written communication skills. 

-Ability to multitask, prioritize, organize details, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced and team-oriented environment.

-Enthusiasm for working collaboratively in a variety of areas within the artistic and operations department and across the organization.

-A refined sense of attention to detail and organization.

-Demonstrated strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, with a creative approach encourage effectiveness and efficiency.

-Exceptional project management skills and the ability to work independently, demonstrate initiative, and anticipate problems.

-Demonstrated willingness to be flexible and versatile, with a curiosity for developing new skills.

-Possess a valid U.S. driver’s license and a good driving record.

-Ability to work days, evenings, weekends and irregular hours as required.