The Cambridge Society for Early Music is seeking a General Manager

The Cambridge Society for Early Music (CSEM) is seeking a highly motivated candidate for the position of General Manager.

The Cambridge Society for Early Music was founded in 1952 by the eminent harpsichordist and musicologist Erwin Bodky. For many years the organization was led by esteemed musician James Nicolson. The mission of the organization is to aid in promoting the musical education of the general public through the study and performance of music composed prior to the 19th century. Performances are held in intimate settings, recreating the actual acoustical conditions and atmosphere in which the music was originally presented. Several performances of each program are held, including in smaller communities, allowing people living outside of cities to experience music of international quality. The Society has, in addition to holding concerts, awarded two prizes: the Erwin Bodky Award, to a young musician who has shown exceptional achievements and promise in the field of early music; and the Arion Award, to an individual who has made outstanding contributions to music culture.

The General Manager will work closely with the Artistic Director and Board of Directors serving as the organization’s front-line representative to the public, providing courteous, patient, and prompt service to CSEM patrons via telephone, email, and in person at events. The position will also require the following administrative skills which may include, but are not limited to, duties as described below.

Operational management of the organization

• Overseeing daily operations (opening mail, answering telephone and emails during office hours)
• Scheduling venue rentals
• Processing telephone, mail, and online ticket orders
• Managing front-of-house operations at in-person concerts and events (including post-concert receptions, pre-concert talks, etc.)
• Facilitating printed programs, including the coordination of incoming and outgoing ads

Fundraising

• Developing a realistic and achievable fundraising plan – in cooperation with the Board of Directors
• Managing annual campaigns (several direct mail and email solicitations throughout the year; cultivating leadership donors, in-kind contributions, and concert/artist sponsors; grant writing)
• Tracking contributions and acknowledgment letters
• Submitting proposals to state and local agencies (for example, Massachusetts Cultural Council & Cambridge Community Foundations)
• Organizing and managing an annual fundraising event (budget, venue, goals, hospitality, entertainment)

Artistic

• Arranging travel and accommodation for non-local artists
• Soliciting material for printed concert programs
• Drafting artist contracts
• Providing administrative support to Artistic Director

Financial

• Creating and monitoring annual budget in consultation with CSEM’s Treasurer and Board of Directors
• Tracking vendor payables and receivables and bank deposits

Marketing & Advertising

• Establishing campaigns for an Annual Concert Series to consist of nine (9) public concerts; the Series will feature three (3) different artists/ensembles, each performing in three (3) intimate venues
• Overseeing print and social media campaigns
• Monitoring and updating CSEM website
• Maintaining and expanding CSEM mailing lists
• Expanding audience outreach by leveraging opportunities for student, senior, and group sales
• Cultivating audience relationships via post-concert communications and other means

Board Relations

• Establishing Agendas for Board Meetings and attending meetings (quarterly, via Zoom)
• Communicating with Board of Directors on a regular basis

The ideal candidate for this position should meet the following qualifications:

• Minimum two (2) years of management experience in a performing arts setting
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and an aptitude for learning data management systems
• Excellent interpersonal skills in person and by telephone, and a commitment to providing exceptional customer service to CSEM patrons
• High attention to detail and excellent organizational and problem-solving skills
• The ability to work both independently and proactively
• Dedication to the performing arts, and a knowledge of and passion for Early Music in particular

General Information

• This is a part-time position (approximately 15 to 20 hours per week) requiring flexibility and availability for after-hours and weekend commitments.
• Presence at all concerts and events is required.
• This position requires working from home; CSEM does not own or rent office space.
• Annual Compensation range: $25,000 to $30,000
• CSEM is an equal opportunity organization, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Apply by: Saturday, November 30, 2024

To apply for this position, please submit your resumé and cover letter via the form to the right, or email them to positions2024@csem.org.