Bel Canto Chorus Seeks Executive Director

MILWAUKEE - July 23, 2013 - PRLog -- MILWAUKEE, WI - Bel Canto Chorus has an immediate opening for an Executive Director, responsible for all administrative, marketing, development, outreach and production activities related to the operation of the organization. The Executive Director partners with the Music Director, Board of Directors, and other artistic and administrative personnel to present programming that achieves the mission of the Bel Canto Chorus.

MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of Bel Canto Chorus is to enrich the lives of its audiences and its singing members through the outstanding live presentation of the finest choral music and to reach out to the community in order to share the benefits and joy of the singing arts.

VISION STATEMENT
To be recognized as a premier choral arts organization and Milwaukee's finest artistic ambassador, known for compelling music-making, innovative programming, leadership in the arts community, and impact on the community as a whole.

Founded in 1931, Bel Canto Chorus enriches the lives of its audiences and members through the presentation of fine choral music. The group has been led for more than 25 years by Richard Hynson, considered one of the nation's finest choral and orchestral conductors. (American Prize Winner 2012)

Bel Canto Chorus ranks in the top ten percent of choral organizations in the country in terms of budget, longevity, and repertoire. Educational outreach includes Bel Canto Senior Singers and Bel Canto Boy Choirs. Rehearsals are held at the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center.

Characterized by a heartfelt belief in the value of Bel Canto Chorus; and supported by its 100 devoted singers, audiences, talented artistic and administrative staff, and dedicated board members; the group's passion for sharing the thrill of live, choral music has remained steadfast throughout its long, proud history.

Position:          Executive Director, Bel Canto Chorus of Milwaukee
Date Available: Immediately
Hours:          Full-time, occasional evening and weekend hours required
Salary:          Negotiable; commensurate with experience

Responsibilities and Duties:
The Executive Director is responsible for all administrative, marketing, development, outreach and production activities related to the operation of Bel Canto Chorus. The Executive Director partners with the Music Director, Board of Directors, and other artistic and administrative personnel to present programming that achieves the mission of the Bel Canto Chorus. Duties include:

•    Administrative functions:  Oversee general office management; develop annual business plan and oversee implementation of the plan; serve as liaison between administrative staff and Board of Directors; manage new projects, and oversee outreach activities.

•    Financial oversight: Oversee the activities of the bookkeeper; create and review financial reports regularly; manage cash flow; create budget projections; work with Board to create annual budget; work with auditor to complete annual audit.

•    Concert production:  Coordinate all activities related to performances and other artistic programs, including preparation for and implementation of concert activities; conduct evaluation of events; work with Music Director and Board to develop annual programming.

•    PR/Marketing:  Manage the compilation and distribution of information regarding Bel Canto performances and activities via the media, electronic communications, website, and printed materials; create annual marketing plan and implement the plan; advocate for and create a positive public image of Bel Canto.

•    Development: Work with the Board and Development Director to implement an annual campaign for individual and corporate contributions; identify and oversee applications for grants from private foundations and governmental agencies; maintain membership status with UPAF, participating in annual campaign activities.

•    Outreach: Oversee all outreach activities which currently include the Bel Canto Boy Choirs, Senior Singers and the Regional Artist Competition. Work with the Board and Education & Outreach Manager to identify new and innovative programs to serve the community.

•    Staff and volunteer relations:  Oversee part-time paid administrative staff; facilitate and coordinate the volunteer efforts of Board and Chorus members; drive the strategic volunteer recruitment process.

•    Strategic planning:  Assist with the development and implementation of long-range plans.

Minimum Qualifications:

•    Bachelor’s Degree

•    Familiarity with non-profit administration, including funding and grantsmanship, marketing, etc.

•    Demonstrated leadership experience and initiative

•    Highly collaborative

•    Exceptional organizational and project management skills; excellent detail and follow-through skills; ability to multi-task, delegate, and manage coordination of people and execution of projects; good decision-making skills

•    Process-oriented; excellent personal time management skills, meetings management skills, and ability to develop and manage to a timeline

•    Excellent oral and written communication skills; ability to interface effectively with a variety of people, including the public, Board members, Chorus members, and volunteers

•    Computer literacy, including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and Access), e-mail, and the Internet; willingness to learn other software tools (e.g., QuickBooks, and ticketing and donor software)

•    Learns quickly, flexible, and adaptable; creative problem-solver; proactively identifies issues and develops plans to address

Preferred Qualifications:

•    Master’s Degree in Business, Arts Management, or Non-profit Management

•    Arts management experience

•    Understanding of/experience with/interest in performing arts groups, especially choral/orchestral music groups

•    Knowledge of Milwaukee; arts and/or business community contacts in the Milwaukee area

•    Bookkeeping/accounting experience

•    Strong strategic thinking skills

Send cover letter and resume to:
Bel Canto Chorus
158 N. Broadway
Milwaukee WI, 53202
or email to:
info@belcanto.org