POSITION TITLE: Executive Director
ABOUT ORCHESTRA NOVA NORTHWEST
As Oregon’s progressive orchestra, Orchestra Nova Northwest (ONN) highlights underrepresented composers and soloists, and works by living composers, in addition to standards of the symphonic repertoire. Since its founding in 1982, Orchestra Nova Northwest has become a staple of the Portland metro area’s vibrant arts scene, bringing together more than 60 paid core musicians to perform a classical subscription series. ONN values excellence, community, personal connection, and accessibility, and collaborates with local, regional, and internationally acclaimed artists and arts organizations who share those values.
Steven Byess, Music Director
Currently entering his 12th season as music director of Orchestra Nova Northwest, Steven Byess is a dynamic and passionate conductor, hailed by critics as “masterful and brilliant,” “creating the epitome of instrumental elegance,” and capturing “the full spirit and vitality of the score perfectly.” In addition to his role with ONN, Steven is also the music director of the Arkansas Philharmonic Orchestra and the North Mississippi Symphony Orchestra. Recognized for his musical versatility, multi-faceted presence on the podium, and passion for music education, he is devoted to promoting a life-long love and enthusiasm for music and the arts. He is a prolific conductor of opera, operetta, musical theatre, and ballet, leading multiple productions each season across the U.S.
More information about ONN can be found at novanw.org
ONN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR JOB DESCRIPTION
The Executive Director is responsible for the consistent achievement of ONN’s mission and financial objectives, and oversees its day-to-day operations. Key goals include building the ONN brand ; developing audiences; increasing earned and contributed revenues; expanding the donor base; supporting a high quality artistic product in close connection with the Music Director; managing the budget; overseeing staff to empower them to productively and creatively move the vision of ONN forward; and engaging the Board of Directors as advocates and fundraisers for ONN.
COMPENSATION: Commensurate with experience and industry standards
FSLA STATUS: Full-time, exempt
LOCATION: Portland, Oregon
SUPERVISION: Operations Manager, Donor Relations, and Patron Services Manager
REPORTS TO: Orchestra Nova Northwest Board of Directors
QUALIFICATIONS FOR SUCCESS
- A proven fundraiser, with success in generating and advancing support from individual and institutional donors. Skilled at identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and recognizing donors for ongoing support as well as funding for special projects.
- Outstanding interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with ONN’s various constituencies, including audiences, donors, staff, Board, musicians, the media, and the broader Portland community.
- Demonstrated skill in audience development, publicity, and marketing programs and overseeing their implementation.
- Social media fluency and application proficiency, including experience with Microsoft Word and Excel, Google Docs, and familiarity with customer database systems.
- Leadership experience in a performing arts organization or other non-profit organization.
- Broad experience in financial management, organizational budgeting, and reporting.
- Personal commitment to the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion with a track record of advancing these principles.
- Must have a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and a willingness to travel.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT
Orchestra Nova Northwest is an equal opportunity employer, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, age, religion, creed, disability, veteran’s status, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.
We strongly encourage people with these identities to apply.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Please send the following documents to onn.edsearch@gmail.com
- Cover letter
- Resume
- Three professional references with contact information. We will seek your explicit permission before contacting any references.
Applications will be accepted until June 1, 2025 or until the position has been successfully filled.

More Info
http:// novanw.org
Salary
Commensurate with experience and industry standards
Location
Portland, OR
Contact Email
onn.edsearch@gmail.com