Executive Director, Bemidji Symphony Orchestra

POSITION
The Executive Director reports to the Board of Directors and oversees all aspects of the Bemidji Symphony Orchestra's (BSO) operations, including fundraising, marketing, financial management, and community engagement. This role leads strategic and day‑to‑day activities across community relations, marketing, development, guest artist coordination, finance, grants, administration, and board support.

Community Relations

Serve as the primary ambassador for the BSO and build relationships across the community, including business and civic organizations

Maintain strong communication with patrons, partners, government agencies, and the public

Represent the BSO at performances, events, and public engagements

Promote and articulate the BSO's mission, vision, and community impact

Marketing and Communications

Oversee and develop engaging content for the website and social media platforms

Develop and execute seasonal and concert-specific marketing plans

Manage advertising, publicity, and promotional campaigns

Coordinate with designers and vendors to produce marketing materials

Development and Fundraising

Partner with the Board and fundraising committee to plan and implement fundraising strategies

Cultivate donor relationships and identify new prospects

Oversee donor stewardship

Grow sustained and planned programs of giving
Guest Artist Coordination

Collaborate with the Music Director to support artistic goals and negotiate guest artist agreements

Coordinate travel, lodging, and hospitality for guest artists

Prepare and manage contracts for guest artists and independent contractors

Finance and Accounting

Manage routine financial operations to include deposits, payments, and concert‑related transactions

Work with the bookkeeper/CPA to ensure accurate financial records and compliance with regulations

Monitor financial performance and collaborate with the Finance Committee

Support development of the annual budget and financial policies

Grant Management

Work with the grants committee to identify and pursue grant opportunities

Oversee grant compliance, implementation, and evaluation

Administration and Operations

Manage musician contracts and required documentation

Maintain databases for ticketing, donations, and advertising

Oversee office operations, supplies, records, and archives

Handle communications, including phone, email, and mail inquiries

Coordinate concert logistics, including setup, volunteers, and materials

Maintain organizational calendars, records, and internal documents

Board Relations

Attend and support Board and committee meetings

Update the Board of organizational performance and key activities

Assist with board development, recruitment, and training

Work Schedule
This is a salaried, exempt position with flexible hours, including some evenings and weekends. The role requires 32 hours per week on average with approximately 16–20 hours per week in the BSO office and close collaboration with contractors and stakeholders. The minimum salary for this position is $41,000/year.

Required Qualifications

Collaborative, process‑oriented approach

Strong organizational, multitasking, and project management skills

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Interest in the arts and nonprofit work

Proficiency in standard office and database software

Valid driver's license

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor's degree

Experience in nonprofit leadership, governance, or management

Background in fundraising, marketing, and/or grant writing

Familiarity with financial management and reporting

Experience managing websites and social media platforms

To apply, please submit a resume, a cover letter expressing your interest and qualifications for the position, and contact information for three relevant references via email to bso@bemidjisymphony.org. Screening of applications begins May 11, 2026. Position open until filled. Desired start date is June 15, 2026.

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