Executive Director

Job Description

Job Description

*The Lexington Symphony, in partnership with Insource Services Inc., is conducting a search for its next Executive Director.*

ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION

Lexington Symphony is a professional orchestra of accomplished musicians who share a passion for classical music, a commitment to community engagement, and a dedication to exacting standards of performance. The Symphony offers six programs each season at Cary Hall in Lexington and reaches thousands of area youth annually with Orchestrating Kids Through Classics™, its award-winning educational outreach program for third and fourth graders. With an emphasis on making music accessible to the community, Lexington Symphony offers world-class programming, affordable tickets, and outreach programs that introduce music lovers of all ages to classical music.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Executive Director (ED) works in partnership with the Board of Directors (Board) and staff to provide leadership, vision, and strategic direction for the organization. The ED has primary responsibility for leading all fundraising efforts and for the oversight and management of all marketing and public relations activities. The ED also implements policies and executes contracts with the approval of the Board and/or the Playing Members, and oversees day-to-day operations.

Employment Type: Full-time, exempt position

Job Location: Lexington, MA/hybrid

Reports to: Board President(s)

Supervises: Operations Manager, Marketing & Graphic Design Consultants

Collaborates with: Board of Directors, Music Director, Playing Members, Treasurer, Production Manager, Bookkeeper

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Fundraising & Development

• Lead all fundraising efforts; develop and execute 2-3 year development plans
• Cultivate relationships with individual donors, corporate sponsors, and foundations
• Write grant proposals and manage reporting; execute annual appeals
• Engage the Board in fundraising activities and donor stewardship

Strategic Leadership

• Collaborate with the Board and the Music Director on strategic planning and organizational vision
• Supervise Operations Manager and support staff
• Ensure compliance with legal, contractual, and policy requirements
• Manage donor database and ticketing systems

Marketing & Community Relations

• Serve as organizational spokesperson and public face
• Build partnerships with community organizations, media, and policymakers
• Oversee marketing plans and website content
• Represent the organization at community events

Financial Management

• Collaborate with the Treasurer on budget development and financial oversight
• Monitor cash flow and provide regular financial reporting to the Board
• Participate in multi-year financial planning

Concert Production Support

• Coordinate guest artist logistics and program book advertising
• Support concert operations and maintain the master schedule
• Oversee concert recording and archival management

QUALIFICATIONS

Required:

• Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree in Nonprofit Management, Arts Administration, Business Administration, or related field preferred
• Minimum 5-7 years of progressive leadership experience in nonprofit management, preferably in the arts or cultural sector
• Proven track record of successful fundraising with demonstrated results (grants, individual giving, corporate sponsorships, campaigns)
• Experience supervising and managing staff
• Experience working with a Board of Directors

Essential Qualities:

• Strategic thinker with an entrepreneurial mindset
• Passion for classical music and arts education
• High emotional intelligence and collaborative style
• Self-motivated; thrives in a flexible, hybrid environment
• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility
• Detail-oriented with strong project management skills

WHAT WE OFFER

• Compensation: The salary range is $90,000 to $100,000 plus a stipend for health insurance.
• Impact: Lead an organization touching thousands of lives through music and education, with room for innovation and growth
• Professional Growth: High-visibility leadership role with autonomy, working alongside accomplished musicians and engaged Board members
• Stability: Financially sound organization with 30+ year legacy, strong community support, and loyal donor base
• Flexibility: Hybrid work model with flexible schedule (evening/weekend concert commitments required)

HOW TO APPLY

Please submit your resume and cover letter directly through this job listing. Selected candidates advancing to the interview process will be asked to provide writing samples. The interview process includes a phone screening, a virtual interview, and an in-person interview.