Director of Operations

Job Location:

Bradley Symphony Center - Milwaukee, WI 53203, Position Type:
Full Time, POSITION DESCRIPTION

Position Title:

Director of Operations

Department:
Operations

Reports to:

VP of Orchestra Operations

FLSA Status:
Exempt

Revised: 10.2026

The Director of Operations oversees the day-to-day production and operations of the orchestra and Allen-Bradley Hall. For all duties, the Director of Operations provides the best possible customer service, communications, project management, and support possible. Specific duties include the management of orchestral operations, overseeing tour and run-out planning, and assisting with orchestral labor relations. The position trains and provides excellent leadership to the operations team.

The Director of Operations reports to the VP of Orchestra Operations, and will be an important part of the MSO team and its home, the Bradley Symphony Center.

• Oversee and manage all logistics of day-to-day operations of Orchestra including supervision of the production of all rehearsals, performances, including production schedules and rider review, instrument and equipment rentals, touring/runouts, presentations, rental events, and other activities including community engagement events and initiatives as needed.
• Serve as a “customer service agent” on behalf of the Operations team by proactively communicating, managing, and assisting all constituencies involved with the concert experience.
• Work closely with artistic leadership, including staff and guest conductors and artists, on details of concert operations and logistics for performances.
• Use best judgment and diplomacy when working with musicians to accommodate requests. Serve as liaison to the Orchestra’s Scheduling Committee and other committees as assigned.
• Review and institute policies and procedures for production, information management, and communication; manage systems as needed. Document and maintain records of production documents and contracts with electronic databases (Arts Vision) and file systems.
• Participate and liaise with concert presenters and promoters for fee-for-hire engagements and venue rentals.
• Manage runout and tour logistics for orchestra personnel and staff, including lodging, personnel transportation, per diem, itineraries, and relevant advances.
• Monitor operations budgets, accruals, and expense actuals vs budget; oversee check request and invoice processes for relevant expenses and income.
• Provide support for recording and other artistic media projects, including but not limited to, archival recordings, radio broadcasts, and television or internal projects.
• Serve in rotation of concert duty and other production duties as needed.
• Assist with stage and venue setups when permitted and necessary.

Other duties as assigned by the VP of Orchestra Operations.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This position is integral in communicating with employees across all functions. In addition, the position includes regular communication and direct contact with guest artists, stagehands, and vendors.

The position requires a Bachelor’s Degree in Music, Arts or Business Administration. Minimum of five years’ experience in orchestra operations management or other relevant experience. Knowledge of orchestral repertoire and performance practices.

Experience with Arts Vision is a plus.