Vice President of Operations, NSO

The Kennedy Center - Washington, DC

Full-time - Mid Level

Washington, DC

Social Assistance

About the position

The Vice President of Operations (VP of Operations) at the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) plays a crucial role in overseeing the day-to-day operations of one of America's premier orchestras. This position is responsible for a wide range of operational functions, including scheduling and production, tour planning and execution, and the negotiation of contracts with musicians, venues, and vendors. The VP of Operations will also manage compliance with union contracts and oversee the Orchestra's recordings and electronic media agreements. This role requires a deep understanding of the orchestral landscape, as well as strong leadership and communication skills to foster positive relationships between the NSO administration and its musicians. In addition to managing the operational aspects of the Orchestra, the VP of Operations will serve as a key staff member for the summer season at Wolf Trap, ensuring that all logistical details are handled efficiently. This includes planning itineraries, negotiating contracts and fees, and addressing any sponsorship credit concerns that may arise. The VP will also collaborate closely with the Director of Finance to develop and monitor budgets for various Orchestra services, including subscription seasons, tours, and special projects. This position is integral to the NSO's mission of delivering exceptional musical experiences to audiences both locally and nationally. The VP of Operations will also be involved in labor negotiations and will serve as the primary liaison to musicians and the Orchestra Committee. This includes preparing for labor negotiations, resolving contract issues, and ensuring compliance with all stipulations of union agreements. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to navigate complex contractual agreements while maintaining a positive working environment for all stakeholders involved. The successful candidate will be expected to represent the NSO at various events, including concerts and receptions, and will play a vital role in shaping the future of the Orchestra's operations and strategic direction.

Responsibilities

• Supervise operations of the Orchestra and ensure compliance with stipulations of union agreement.
• Oversee interpretation of contract; set agenda and participate in Orchestra Committee Meetings.
• Negotiate individual musician agreements.
• Serve as primary liaison to musicians and Orchestra Committee.
• Ensure smooth communication and promote positive working relationships between the Association and musicians, including preparation for labor negotiations and resolutions of contract issues.
• Negotiate and monitor compliance of electronic media contracts.
• Act as Joint Executive Producer for recording projects.
• Supervise tour and run-out concerts: Plan itinerary; negotiate contracts and fees; problem-solve logistical and sponsorship credit concerns.
• Develop future touring agenda and strategy.
• Plan, organize and monitor budgets for Orchestra services, electronic media, and special concerts and projects in collaboration with the Director of Finance.
• Oversee and monitor the budgets of subscription season, tours, run-outs, and stage technicians.
• Serve as staff liaison to Labor Relations Task Force and Pension Committees of the NSO Board of Directors; provide direction and information for committees.
• Supervise the NSO's Kennedy Center Concert Hall concert operations.
• Oversee NSO capital projects including Concert Hall seat replacement project renovation in Summer 2025 and the replacement of the Labor Day tent on the US Capitol lawn.
• Concert duty: arrive early backstage to check all preparations are in place; inform Orchestra personnel or stage technicians of any last-minute changes in stage issues; determine the actual starting time of NSO concerts with production; attend receptions for guest artists and conductors as required.
• Recommend and scrutinize policies and activities for the NSO, focusing on Orchestra and Hall operations.
• Collaborate with VP Artistic Planning to prepare and manage the orchestra's master schedule.
• Manage date availability in the KC Concert Hall, serve as a member of the Concert Hall team, and manage the date release and service tracking process.
• Represent the NSO Administration at Wolf Trap: participate in negotiations of the Wolf Trap contract, work with the Director of Orchestra Personnel on Orchestra member's leave requests, assist with interpretation of the contract, oversee billing, and attend concerts as needed.
• Negotiate contracts with unions and individual union members.
• Collect comparative data, participate in negotiating teams, and draft contracts.
• Supervise special projects as necessary.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• 5-10 years of experience in orchestra operations.
• Formal musical and business training or equivalent experience; knowledge of classical music repertoire.
• Ability to read, interpret, and draft legal documents.
• Experience negotiating contracts.
• Experience managing complex projects.
• Management experience.
• Strong communication skills.
• Strong budgeting ability.

Benefits

• Staff offers for discount tickets
• Retirement plan with organization matching (after 1 year of employment)
• Qualifying employer for the Public Student Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)
• Commuter programs including pre-tax options for discounted parking and SmartBenefits (WMATA)
• Annual Leave, Sick Leave, and Personal Days available immediately upon hire
• 11 paid holidays per year
• Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits with FSA and HSA options, and paid FMLA
• Flexible work arrangements