Bryan Symphony Orchestra Association 

Executive Director 

Job Description 

Organization and Community

Founded in 1963, the Bryan Symphony Orchestra Association (BSOA) is a professional symphony located in Cookeville, Tennessee. The BSOA works in partnership with the Tennessee Technological University’s School of Music but is its own 501(c)3 organization governed by a board of directors chosen from the community. Cookeville is a micropolitan community with a city population of 36,000. However, the symphony serves a much larger region of 130,000 people. Cookeville is a regional hub for business and continues to grow as a destination for families and retirees alike. Its proximity to Nashville, Knoxville, and Chattanooga make it a great central location with a “small town” feel while boasting a vibrant arts community. 

The mission of the Bryan Symphony Orchestra Association is to engage, educate, and enrich its community through the performance of live music. 

Position Summary

Reporting directly to the BSOA Board of Directors, the Executive Director will be responsible for executing the Bryan Symphony’s mission while establishing and implementing the organization’s strategic vision. The Executive Director, the most senior administrative staff member, will report directly to the BSOA Board of Directors and will work in partnership with the BSOA’s Music Director, and the Director of the School of Music at Tennessee Tech University. The Executive Director will lead the strategic planning, goal setting, and governance for the organization, with accountability for the artistic, educational, financial, and community operation functions year-round. The Executive Director will work with the Board of Directors and BSOA staff on ensuring that all programs and operations of the BSOA align with the mission and strategic plan of the organization.   

Key Roles and Responsibilities: 

• Work with BSOA board of directors to realize and define short and long-term strategic direction that implement the mission of the organization
• Successfully implement and measure impact-driven programming in collaboration with the Board of Directors and the Music Director. 
• Lead and manage BSOA staff members and contractors, and oversee all implementations of programs of the BSOA 
• Fundraising - collaborate with the Board of Directors to secure short and long-term funding and gifts from individuals and organizations through planned, corporate, and foundation giving. 
• Foster current and seek out new donor relationships within the community. 
• Manage BSOA annual operating budget of approximately $200k and finances including, but not limited to: annual fundraising and earned income goals, annual artistic and educational programming finances, and bookkeeping and record keeping of financial documents of the organization in conjunction with our accounting firm. 
• Ensure the BSOA is in compliance with all state and federal tax, business, and nonprofit regulations, forms, and regulations. 
• Oversee operations of concerts including but not limited to: concert marketing and promotion, musician and guest artist needs and accommodations, day-of coordinations such as musicians, stage, venue, and volunteer needs, and sponsor communications. 
• Communicate and advocate for arts support and activities in the region through your role as executive director. 

Key Qualifications

• Management or arts administration experience. Experience within a nonprofit organization is preferred. 
• Knowledgeable and passionate about the arts and its potential for performance, education, and social impact within the community. 
• Experience in leadership of or participation in successful fundraising campaigns or strategic financial planning programs. 
• Interpersonal skills. 
• Time-management skills. 
• The ability to succeed in a fast-paced environment, often with short turn-around times. 
• Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate, collaborate, and build relationships with artists, staff, board, donors, and a diverse community. 
• Proficient English written- and spoken-language skills 
• Strong prioritization of delegation skills 
• Strong computer skills (Microsoft, Google Drive) are preferred, but not required. 

This is a full-time exempt position that offers a flexible schedule. While regular office hours and time committed to donor and community outreach is required, this position is highly project-based. The Executive Director will set their own schedule with approval from the Board of Directors. 

A CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK is required.

REFERENCES: Please provide letters of reference from three individuals familiar with the candidate’s background, qualifications, and work history.

SALARY: Negotiable, depending on experience.