Artistic Operations Manager

Job Description

Melbourne Chamber Orchestra is seeking a highly experienced Artistic Operations Manager to oversee its busy program of statewide and interstate performances. Primary location: MCO’s office and main rehearsal venue is at 431 St Kilda Road, Melbourne VIC 3004. MCO staff typically work a mixture of office and remote hours, based on operational requirements. Additionally, the successful applicant is required to be present at all rehearsals and performances and as such, there is a regular need to work off-site across metropolitan Melbourne, throughout regional Victoria and occasionally interstate. Reporting to: Executive Director Position type: Full-time (37.5 hrs per week / 10-day fortnights, rostered according to operational requirements) Salary details: $80,000 – $90,000 per annum, commensurate with experience, plus statutory superannuation Employment period: Permanent and ongoing. There will be a six-month probation period Other conditions: The applicant will be an Australian citizen or have appropriate permissions to work in Australia Commencement date: Monday 3rd March 2025 (or earlier if available) Application process: Please email your application to MCO Executive Director Adele Schonhardt (contact details below). Your application must consist of: a covering letter of one page only at a legible font size, detailing your fit with the role’s selection criteria, and; On request, you will need to provide contact details of two professional referees. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend an interview in the week of Monday 17th February 2025. About the Artistic Operations Manager (AOM) Role This position requires the efficient and effective management of the artistic duties of Melbourne Chamber Orchestra, covering our concert seasons at the Melbourne Recital Centre, our regional touring program, education program, external hires and special events. Typically, MCO would stage around 50 performances and events, more than half of which are in regional Victoria or peri-urban Melbourne. This is a very responsible management role within our small team. You will bring your experience and self-motivation to ensure best-practice approaches to all aspects of our performance program. You will look ahead to prevent problems; pre-empt the needs of colleagues and musicians; have strong planning skills; and systematic work practices. You will have excellent interpersonal skills to maintain appropriate relationships and communication with all stakeholders. The Artistic Operations Manager needs to be able to manage flexible hours around rehearsal and performance requirements, and be able to accompany the orchestra on tour. It is a requirement that leave is not taken during critical operational periods. This position works closely with the Artistic Director (AD) and Administration Manager (AM) and reports to the Executive Director (ED). Key Selection Criteria have previous relevant experience in orchestra management; be able to read music, and have at least some knowledge of orchestral and chamber music repertoire and music history; possess a familiarity with the orchestral scene in Australia and its participants; be the face of the organisation to our musicians and be seen as open, communicative, knowledgeable, task-focussed and competent; understand the requirements of orchestral musicians, the logistics associated with touring and of presenting concerts in different venues; be prepared to work flexible hours during the concert season and on tour; show exceptional personal organisation skills, including the ability to work independently and coordinate the multiple demands of presenting programs and planning seasons; be able to build and manage the orchestra’s schedule working with the AD & ED; be aware of OH&S issues in an orchestral context and will have a first aid certificate or the willingness to obtain one; have experience stage managing performances, and a general understanding of the technical requirements of live performance, including the ability to set up, operate, and pack down basic lighting and sound equipment; be physically able to transport, set up and pack down equipment and musical instruments required for MCO activities, in accordance with safe manual handling procedures; have experience with budgeting and project modelling; be computer literate and competent in preparing professional office documents such as contracts and schedules in Microsoft Office applications, and be able to use an Apple computer; have strong negotiation and conflict management skills; possess a full and current driver’s licence. #J-18808-Ljbffr