Posted: 04-Dec-25
Location: Palm Beach, Florida
Type: Full Time
Salary: $175000 - $200000
Pay Frequency:
Salary Details:
LOCATION: Palm Beach, FL (in-person)
INFORMATION: cmspb.org
BACKGROUND
Under the extraordinary artistic leadership of Arnaud Sussmann, the Chamber Music Society of Palm Beach (CMSPB) is known for performances and educational programs of the highest artistic merit. Since 2013, CMSPB has presented over 150 artists, from the eminent Emerson String Quartet to acclaimed violinists James Ehnes and Pinchas Zuckerman and pianists Anne-Marie McDermott and Inon Barnatan. CMSPB is a presenting partner of the Boscobel Chamber Music Festival in Garrison, New York, currently in its fourth season. The festival has brought top-tier musicians and compelling repertoire, as well as open rehearsals and special opportunities for children and families to engage with chamber music programs. CMSPB’s Rising Artists program is an immersive residency for emerging international musicians that pairs them with experienced mentors and artists in the chamber music field while offering performance, career development, and educational opportunities.
CMSPB concerts are more than entertainment; they are a place for intellectual growth and community engagement through the power of chamber music. CMSPB’s educational programs have provided students access to masterclasses and intimate in-school performances by internationally renowned artists and teachers. Through its work, CMSPB promotes a greater understanding and appreciation of chamber music and enhances the cultural life of Palm Beach.
POSITION
The incoming executive director will set the future direction for the organization at this exciting moment of growth. The ED’s charge includes working closely with board members and the Artistic Director to define a strategic plan encompassing organizational growth and development, external relations, financial and operational sustainability, and programming. The ideal candidate is a compelling and visionary leader with a proven ability to inspire motivated teams, forge effective partnerships, and drive sustainable growth.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategic Leadership
- Collaborate with the Artistic Director and board members to shape the future of the Chamber Music Society of Palm Beach, including finalizing the organization’s strategic plan and setting targets for desired impact.
- Communicate the vision for the CMSPB so that all internal and external stakeholders understand the organization’s primary goals and know how their work and partnership contribute to making them a reality.
- Grow the organization’s reach, visibility, programs, and budget.
- Set clear, measurable goals to sustain and grow CMSPB’s influence and presence locally and nationally.
- Nurture existing and new relationships with external partners, including corporate sponsors, concert venues, and community organizations, in order to expand CMSPB’s reach and programs.
Fundraising and External Relations
- Work with fundraising consultants and the board of directors to ensure that CMSPB continues to have a comprehensive and successful fundraising plan.
- Serve as a compelling and engaging spokesperson, with the ability to succinctly and clearly discuss CMSPB’s work and inspire an appreciation for chamber music in all audiences.
- Identify, strengthen, and sustain relationships with a variety of partners and stakeholders, including funders, community partners, performers, and other chamber music presenters; be a visible and engaging presence in the Palm Beach and regional social and donor community.
- Continue to articulate CMSPB’s unique identity and expand recognition of CMSPB, both locally and nationally, as a leader in presenting chamber music.
Financial and Operational Leadership
- Develop and oversee the implementation of the infrastructure and team needed to grow the organization and support CMSPB’s programs and strategic goals.
- Develop and oversee the implementation of a competitive, comprehensive employee benefits program to attract and retain top talent.
- Ensure that the CMSPB has a positive, collaborative culture that attracts and retains staff, provides opportunities for professional development, and operates according to HR best practices.
- Ensure the organization’s finances are healthy, sustainable, and managed according to best practices.
Board Relations
- Work closely with an engaged and active board to determine and evaluate the strategic direction for the organization.
- Develop strong relationships with each board member, ensuring their contribution to the organization is aligned with their interests and organization’s needs.
- Partner with the current board to attract, engage, and retain new board members who can help the organization realize its mission and vision.
- Help strengthen the board’s systems and structures to maximize impact.
To apply, lease send cover letter and resume as one PDF to CMSPBED@pbrsearch.com with subject line "APAP - CMSPB Position" and attachment format “Last Name First Name – Letter Resume” and complete the Voluntary Self Identification form. This will assist us in improving our hiring practices and ensuring equal opportunities. Participation is voluntary and will not affect your candidacy in any way.
Frequently cited statistics show that women and people from underrepresented groups apply to jobs only if they think they meet 100% of the criteria. If you meet many but not all the criteria and feel you may be a good fit for the role, the Chamber Music Society of Palm Beach encourages you to apply.
The Chamber Music Society of Palm Beach is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, national origin, ethnic origin, citizenship status, disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law in its employment policies. The Chamber Music Society of Palm Beach will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.
Experience – Required
- Significant executive leadership experience in a similar or related organization
- Track record of setting a vision and bringing the vision to life in collaboration with an engaged board, staff, and other stakeholders
- Deep level of comfort being the primary external representative with media, donors, and partners
- Hands on experience with fundraising and building strong relationships with a diverse set of stakeholders
- Strong experience setting the vision for organizational excellence, including the development of the staff structure and budget needed to implement the systems and structures that will make that vision a reality
- Prior work developing and managing a board of trustees
- Experience setting and managing budgets and revenue streams
- A personal or professional connection to/passion for chamber music
Experience – Preferred
- Prior experience working in or with a chamber music, classical music, or performing arts organization
- Connection to and/or some prior understanding of the Palm Beach/Southern Florida area and audience
Personal Attributes
- Entrepreneurial mindset; strong business sense
- Commitment to CMSPB’s mission with a deep interest in and passion for live music presentation (classical music specifically), as well as community outreach and education
- Ability to operate at a high strategic level while being grounded in the work of the team
- Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to engage successfully with the Palm Beach community
- Emotional intelligence and natural ability to engage with diverse audiences, including staff, board members, partners, funders, and community members in Palm Beach and beyond