Manager of Artistic Planning

Manager of Artistic Planning

REPORTS TO: Head of Programming

POSITION SUMMARY: The Manager of Artistic Planning is responsible for managing and executing the detailed implementation of artistic plans for the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra's concert seasons, supporting operational execution of concert planning, guest artists contracting and relations, and budget administration. This position directly supervises the Artist Liaison, and works closely with the orchestra library and titled conductors (Music Director, Assistant Conductor, Director of Chorus, and IN UNISON Chorus Director). A key collaborator, the Manager of Artistic Planning is the primary point of contact between the Artistic Operations Department and all other departments ensuring seamless execution of programing details while fostering strong internal and external artistic relationships.

This is an opportunity to create a lasting impact during one of the most thrilling times in the history of the orchestra, as we welcome the public to beautifully renovated Powell Hall.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

      Programming Implementation & Execution:

• Collaborate closely with the Head of Programming to implement the artistic vision for all SLSO concerts and programs.
• Manage the detailed planning and execution of the classical subscription series, non-subscription programming, chamber music series (including the Pulitzer and Sheldon series), holiday programs (such as Mercy Holiday, IN UNISON Christmas), special concerts (including Forest Park, LEV), and other initiatives as guided by the Head of Programming.
• Organize, finalize and distribute all artistic planning information to staff and orchestra musicians, and other stakeholders.
• Communicate appropriate artist contract information internally, responding to inquiries about programming, artist scheduling, and engagement.

         Artist & Conductor Engagement & Relations:

• Engage cover conductors and pre-concert lecturers for all subscription concerts.
• Under the guidance of the Head of Programming, interact with agents and managers to ascertain artist availability and negotiate agreements for guest artists, conductors, and composers.
• Administer performance contracts in collaboration with the Artist Liaison.
• Oversee functions and related activities of Artistic Liaison, ensuring excellent artist servicing in coordination with Productions/Operations teams, and provide artist services directly as needed.
• Manage composer communications, score submissions, and commissioning agreements, supporting the Head of Programming’s commissioning portfolio development.

         Internal & External Collaboration & Communication:

• Provide accurate artistic planning information for marketing, public relations, and philanthropic purposes, including proofing printed materials and press communications.
• Distribute and ensure completion of Conductor Questionnaires, disseminating information internally.
• Collaborate with the Education and Community Department to facilitate artistic planning for education, family, and Youth Orchestra concerts as needed.
• In collaboration with Youth Orchestra Manager, oversee the conducting schedule of Resident Conductor and Music Director of the St. Louis Youth Symphony.
• Participate in Artistic Administration department meetings and represent the artistic department at Production meetings.

         Budget & Administration:

• Assist the Head of Programming in developing and keeping track of the artistic budget.
  
  
• Prepare, maintain, and track budgets for specifically assigned artistic programs and projects, providing budget accurate and current forecasts for financial reporting.   
• Oversee contract administration and expense tracking for areas of responsibility.

         Concert & Event Support:

• Manage surtitles for concerts, as required.
• Serve as Arts Vision system administrator, facilitating appropriate user access, and ensuring that artistic planning data is accurately and completely entered, including titles of works, composers, pronunciations, rehearsal orders, and other information, in collaboration with music librarians.
• Participate in artistic and concert duty rotations, which may include artist hospitality, attending artistic dinners, leading post-concert subscriber meet-and-greets, providing artistic feedback to production team and conductors for amplified presentations, and other support as needed.
• Support guest artist appearances for institutional goals in philanthropy, marketing, learning, and community engagement.

         Perform other duties as needed or assigned.

 

REQUIREMENTS:  

-Passion for and deep knowledge of symphonic music, artists, and the orchestra industry.

-Enthusiasm for and interest in a broad array of musical styles, genres, and repertoire.

-Extensive knowledge of orchestral, opera, and chamber repertoire.  Ability to read music.  An advanced degree in music performance or music history is desirable.

-3+ years of progressive artistic planning and programming experience in an orchestra, opera company, or music festival setting preferred, with a proven track record of successful program execution and project management.

-Proven negotiation and contract administration skills.

-Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

-Ability to multitask, prioritize, organize details, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

-A team-oriented, inclusive, consistently positive, collaborative, professional demeanor and demonstrated leadership skills.  

-A refined sense of attention to detail and organization.

-Well-developed critical thinking, problem-solving, research, and strategic planning support skills.

-Reputation for high ethical standards and sensitivity working with confidential information.

-A commitment to maintaining positive working relationships with a wide variety of constituents, including staff, orchestra musicians, guest artists, artist managers, and volunteers.

-Ability to work days, evening, weekends and irregular hours as required.

-Technological proficiency is a must, including Microsoft Office Suite and the ability to quickly learn and utilize new software applications; experience with Arts Vision (or similar orchestral planning software) is highly preferred.

-Possess a valid U.S. driver’s license and a good driving record.

 

About the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra

Celebrated as one of today’s most innovative, exciting, and enduring orchestras, the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra is the second-oldest orchestra in the country, marking its 146th year with the 2025/26 season and its eighth with Stéphane Denève, The Joseph and Emily Rauh Pulitzer Music Director. Widely considered one of the leading American orchestras, the Grammy® Award-winning SLSO maintains its commitment to artistic excellence, educational impact, and community engagement—all in service to its mission of enriching lives through the power of music.

The 25/26 season marks the reopening of the orchestra’s historic home following a two-year transformational expansion and renovation designed by acclaimed architecture firm Snøhetta. The Jack C. Taylor Music Center, with a renovated Powell Hall at its heart, builds on the institution's momentum as a civic leader in convening individuals, creators, and ideas.