Chief Operating Officer

University Musical Society (UMS) seeks a strategic and collaborative leader to serve as the organization’s inaugural Chief Operating Officer (COO). The COO will sit at the heart of a vibrant cultural institution with a legacy of over 145 years of artistic excellence and innovation.

This role offers the chance for a mission-driven leader with a passion for the arts and operational excellence to build and lead strategies that support world-class performances, community engagement, and educational programming.

In partnership with the President and peers on the senior leadership team, the COO will influence UMS’s daily operations, build more robust and efficient cross-departmental collaboration, and support the President in translating strategy into actionable goals for performance and growth. UMS employs approximately 33 full-time staff, has an annual operating budget of $11-12M, and is a closely affiliated University of Michigan partner.

The role will be instrumental in shaping one of the nation’s most esteemed performing arts organizations by ensuring that clear and efficient systems, processes, staffing, and coordination are in place. Furthermore, the COO will play a critical role in both the ongoing refinement and implementation of the organization's 150th vision and strategic plan, and in the potential UMS building project.

This will enable the organization to grow and seize new opportunities while continuing to deliver excellence every day and remain a consistent leader in the performing arts and cultural sector locally and nationally.

Screening of complete applications will begin immediately and continue until the search process is completed. Inquiries, nominations, referrals, and CVs with cover letters should be sent below.

Ben Tobin is leading this search with Nella Young and Alaine Small.

University Musical Society is committed to developing staffwho thrive and contribute to a positive and inclusive environment.For more information on UMS, visitwww.ums.org .