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Executive Director

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COMMUNITY & ORGANIZATION PROFILE: 

Nestled on the western shores of Puget Sound, Bremerton (pop. 45,000) is the economic center and largest city in Kitsap County (pop. 275,000). Located a scenic ferry ride from downtown Seattle, this growing, vibrant city lies between the urban areas to the east and the wilderness of the Olympic Peninsula to the west. The area is part of the historical territory of the Suquamish people, and home to the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and multiple naval bases, employing over 26,000 civilians and servicemembers. 

 

Founded in 1942, the Bremerton Symphony Association (BSA) is the largest classical arts organization in Kitsap County. The organization includes the Bremerton WestSound Symphony, Bremerton Symphony Chorale, and Bremerton Youth Jazz Ensemble, which involve 100-120 volunteer performers. The orchestra presents 5-6 full symphonic performances each season, and additional programs including OrKIDstra concerts, which allow over 2,000 elementary students to experience live symphonic music. The BSA unites and enriches West Sound communities by sharing a passion for live music, preserving artistic tradition, and breaking barriers to music education.   

 

POSITION SUMMARY: 

The Executive Director is the lead staff member of the Bremerton Symphony Association (BSA). This position supports the board and committees in their work to realize the vision, mission and values of the organization. The Executive Director bears final responsibility for the administration and management of Association resources and implementing policies set forth by the Board of Directors. The Executive Director supervises administrative staff and works closely with the Music, Chorale and Youth Jazz Directors.

 

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBIITIES: 

  • Provide regular support and reporting on the creation and implementation of the strategic vision and plan.

  • Support the development of the operating budget, approving organization expenses and reporting on results and variances.

  • Represent the BSA at public events, acting as an advocate for an inclusive organization which actively engages new segments of the community.

  • Oversee all aspects of contributed income campaigns from individuals, corporations, foundations, and granting organizations.

  • Lead office operations, ensuring proper procedures and legal compliance for the effective management of the organization.

  • Manage human resources needs for the BSA office, including hiring, reviews, termination, and compensation discussions.

  • Support the work of the Board of Directors in developing and maintaining policies, recruiting and orienting new board members, and preparing materials for board and committee meetings.

 

A full job description can be found HERE

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IDEAL CANDIDATE QUALITIES: 

The ideal candidate is a confident, experienced leader who exudes a strong presence as a chief executive. They have an outgoing personality and are adept at building relationships with a variety of staff, musicians, and board and community members. The candidate has a passion for the role of music and the performing arts in society, and its ability to bring together a wide range of people in a shared love of the arts. They will leverage skills in nonprofit management, resource development, and community engagement to oversee the next chapter in the development of the Bremerton Symphony Association.  

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KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

  • Ability to work independently, with general direction from the Board President and Executive Committee.

  • Fluency in the use of common social media platforms, and their use as communications tools to engage new and existing performing arts audiences.

  • Effective verbal communication and team leadership skills, with an ability to build trust among a small nonprofit staff.  

  • The ability to remain diplomatic with sensitive information and manage complex conversations with a variety of internal and external stakeholders.

  • Computer skills: advanced proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Adobe Creative Suite required; experience with Google Drive or other cloud-based sharing systems- and Arts People or similar online ticketing and database software- preferred. 

 

BASIC AND PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's Degree required; MBA, MPA, or MFA (Arts Management) preferred. 

  • Five years experience working in the nonprofit sector; experience in a senior nonprofit management position preferred.

  • Experience developing funding relationships and soliciting support from individuals, corporations, or foundations through written or in-person requests. 

  • Familiarity with the technical and administrative needs of a performing arts organization preferred.

  • Successfully passing a Washington State background check.

 

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:

This is a full-time, exempt position. Annual salary is $70,000-75,000. Health insurance coverage will be provided with this position. Bremerton Symphony Association is an equal opportunity employer.

 

TO APPLY:

Submit a resume and cover letter, including professional references, to search@bremertonsymphony.org. This position is open until filled; priority will be given to applications received by April 1, 2024. 

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