The Director of Artistic Planning initiates and manages programs for the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra (CSO) and May Festival, playing a pivotal role in programming, project management, and administration. In addition to outstanding communication and execution skills, the ability to empower collaborators and a strong understanding of the importance of diversity and equity in orchestral music are essential. 

Responsibilities:   

• Initiate programming for the CSO and May Festival in collaboration with the CSO Music Director, May Festival Directors, CSO Creative Partner, Assistant Conductors and guest artists in close consultation with the Vice President of Artistic Planning.
• Ensure a diverse array of exceptionally engaging repertoire and artists across all programming within budgetary parameters in order to maximize artistic goals in alignment with the CSO’s strategic plan.
• Serve as primary producer of CSO Proof and other non-subscription programming - collaborating with guest artists, outside partners, and internal stakeholders to execute multi-disciplinary, conceptual, experience-driven events.
• Facilitate guest artist participation in Learning, Community Engagement and Philanthropy-related activities; when required, ensure these engagements are part of contractual agreements.
• Provide collaborative support for Cincinnati Pops (POPS) productions as assigned
• Manage CSO and May Festival artist servicing and logistics in coordination with the Artistic Planning and Production/Operations teams. Oversee Assistant to the Music Director & Artistic Planning and Artist Liaison in collaboration with Senior Advisor for Cincinnati Pops Planning for POPS production logistics and artist servicing
• Inform and ensure accuracy of artistic budget; manage contract negotiation, administration and expense tracking for all CSO and May Festival programs and artists.
• Advise Communications & Digital Media team with artist information, interview requests and manage production of digital media projects on behalf of the Artistic Planning team.
• Communicate program details and share context with internal stakeholders.
• Provide collaborative support for Marketing efforts, serving as the primary liaison for subscription and single ticket campaigns, and ensure accuracy of all materials.
• Participate in rehearsal and performance operations, including hospitality and special events.
• Support organization’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives and contribute to a respectful organizational culture. 
• Additional duties as assigned.

Relationships:

• Reports to: Vice President of Artistic Planning.
• Oversees: Assistant to the Music Director & Artistic Planning and Artist Liaison

• Passion for and knowledge of orchestral music and artists, as well as enthusiasm and interest in a broad array of musical styles and repertoire.
• Artistic planning experience exemplifying a proven track-record of quality, precision, creativity and innovation, preferably in an orchestra setting.
• Proven negotiation and contract administration skills.
• Outstanding critical thinking, problem solving and communication skills.
• Demonstrable leadership qualities exemplified by a team-oriented, inclusive and consistently positive demeanor. 
• Ability to establish and sustain productive professional relationships with artists and colleagues.
• Technological proficiency including the ability to quickly learn and utilize new software applications; experience with OPAS a plus.
• Outstanding attention to detail, stellar written communication and ability to manage multiple plans effectively and on time. 
• Highly driven and proactive working style. 
• Experience working with artists and the ability to work nights and weekends is essential.
• Possession of a valid U.S. driver’s license and a good driving record.