General Manager - Columbus Symphony Orchestra

The Columbus Symphony is in a period of dynamic growth, renewed artistic ambition, and deepened community engagement. As one of the city’s cultural anchors and poised to celebrate our 75th Anniversary season, we are shaping a future that honors our artistic legacy while embracing innovation, inclusivity, and the evolving expectations of our audiences. Under new executive leadership, the Symphony is strengthening organizational culture, building on a sustaining operating model, expanding educational and community impact, and planning a state-of-the-art new concert hall that will elevate not only the Symphony but the entire region.

This is an exciting moment to join a forward-looking organization poised for transformation.

The Opportunity

Do you excel at turning artistic vision into seamless, world-class execution – leading teams, systems and workflows that make performances shine?

Are you a strategic problem-solver who thrives in fast-paced environments, managing complex logistics, budgets, labor relationships, and cross-departmental coordination with confidence and clarity?

Are you energized by the chance to help shape a transformational new concert hall and build the operational foundation for a growing, ambitious orchestra?

Primary Function

The General Manager is a key strategic and operational leader at the symphony – overseeing the systems, people and process that bring performances and events to life. A member of the senior leadership team, the GM reports to the CEO and works in close partnership with the VP of Artistic Planning & Programs, CFO, Music Director, Principal Pops Conductor and senior leadership colleagues.

The GM ensures the smooth, efficient, and high-quality execution of all orchestra operations, manages critical relationships with musicians, venues, unions and partners; and plays a vital role as we plan and build our future home. This is a role for a collaborative, solutions-oriented professional who thrives in complex environments, builds strong cross-departmental relationships, and can translate vision into reality.

Duties and Responsibilities

Organizational Leadership & Collaboration

Serve as a member of the senior leadership team in establishing organizational strategy, priorities, goals and budget and fostering a positive and inclusive organizational culture

Collaborate closely with the CEO, VP of Artistic Planning & Programs, and other department heads to ensure cohesive planning across artistic, operational and administrative functions.

Provide regular updates and analyses to the CEO and when requested, Board of Trustees.

Model a collaborative, solutions-oriented approach that reinforces a positive and high-performing organizational culture.

Operations Management

Lead all aspects of concert and event operations, including scheduling, technical production, stage management, and front-of-house coordination.

Supervise production and operations staff, stage crew, and venue management personnel.

Work with CFO and finance team to develop and monitor the production and facilities budgets;
Identify and implement cost-saving initiatives without compromising artistic quality or mission.

Oversee maintenance and capital needs related to production equipment and infrastructure.

Manage relationships and logistics related to touring, run-outs, and community engagement performances.

Partner with the VP of Artistic Planning & Programs to align production logistics with artistic intent and programming strategy.

Manage the organizational use of file sharing and calendar management platforms and serve as the main point of contact for IT resources.

Orchestra Personnel Management & Labor Relations

Oversee orchestra personnel management including auditions, hiring, contracting, visa and work authorization, policies and procedures, working with HR to ensure timeliness, accuracy, compliance and service objectives are met.

Administer the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) in partnership with the CEO, CFO and HR;
Maintain accurate records of CBA compliance and provide guidance to staff and musicians on contractual matters.

Serve as principal member of the…