Join the Best Community Orchestra in the Nation!

The Summerville Orchestra is redefining what it means to be a community orchestra. Named the Best Performing Community Orchestra in the Nation by The American Prize in 2023, we blend genres, engage the senses and break barriers with 30+ annual performances designed to connect and inspire.

From classical masterworks to jazz nights, movie scores and chamber ensembles, every concert is crafted to make music accessible, fresh and deeply rooted in community.

We partner with restaurants, theaters, galleries, libraries and parks to present free and low-cost concerts across Summerville—on stage, in coffee houses and under the stars. Wherever we play, our goal is simple: share the joy of music widely and meaningfully.

Founded 22 years ago by amateur musicians playing for the sheer joy of it, that spirit still drives us. Today, under the dynamic and visionary leadership of Music Director Wojciech Milewski, we’re an 80-member volunteer orchestra, blending the area’s finest musicians with emerging youth and dedicated amateurs. In the last four years, we’ve doubled our budget, launched a Youth Philharmonic and commissioned original works—all while holding fast to the joyful energy that formed us.

Now, we’re searching for a dynamic Executive Director to help lead us into our next chapter.

About the Role

The Executive Director (ED) is the chief administrative officer of the Summerville Orchestra and works in close partnership with the Music Director (MD) and Board of Directors (BOD). The ED is responsible for the overall management of the organization, including staff, operations, development, strategic implementation and community engagement. The ED reports to the BOD.

This is not a behind-the-scenes position. We’re looking for a visible, engaged leader who will represent the orchestra in the community, build relationships with donors and partners, support the growth of our orchestra and youth programs.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a creative environment, enjoys both systems and storytelling, and finds joy in helping people come together through music.

Who We’re Looking For

We’re seeking a collaborative leader who brings both structure and soul to their work. You don’t need to have managed an orchestra before—but you do need to love music (really love it), and you need to understand its value in a community like ours.

You’re the kind of person who thrives on building relationships, who brings people in, and who lights up when you talk about creative ideas, new partnerships or unexpected possibilities. You’re an experienced administrator who knows how to run a smooth operation—from budgets and schedules to communications and logistics—but you also know that the job isn’t just about keeping things moving. It’s about helping the whole organization rise.

Most importantly, you live by the belief: “I do better when we all do better.” You lead with humility, listen with curiosity and care deeply about people. You know how to rally a team, support your colleagues, and bring purpose and joy to the work we share.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership

• In partnership with the BOD, work to achieve our long-term Vision, achieving the Strategic Goals of Sustainability, Community Engagement and Artistic Excellence.
• Inspire collaboration and growth for the Summerville Orchestra and Youth Philharmonic, as well as our expansive outreach series.

Administrative Management

• Develop and follow policies for efficient and transparent day-to-day operations.
• Supervise and support all staff, promoting efficient operation while serving our public constituency.
• In conjunction with the MD, develop an annual plan for orchestra operations, including rehearsal schedules, concerts, special events and broadcasts.
• Ensure that all rehearsals, concerts and other events are properly staffed.
• In coordination with the BOD Treasurer, manage the organization’s budget and financial reporting, ensuring financial sustainability and responsible resource allocation.
• Maintain all payroll records for administrative and artistic staff.
• Develop and execute fundraising strategies to grow individual, corporate and grant funding. 
• Manage the orchestra’s brand identity and public image.
• Attend all BOD meetings, prepare reports as requested, and serve as ex officio member of all BOD committees.

Artistic Collaboration

• Partner with the MD in fulfillment of the artistic mission.
• Support the MD’s programming and artistic vision, collaborating for marketability and funding, and arranging all logistics for guest artists.  

Community Engagement

• Foster strong relationships with community partners, sponsors and stakeholders.
• Advocate for the arts and the importance of live performance within the diverse community.
• Represent the orchestra in local and regional civic planning, as well as a liaison to public schools.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Four-year degree minimum with experience in the arts. Non-profit management experience preferred.
• Strong leadership skills with a demonstrated ability to build and motivate teams. 
• Excellent communication, writing and interpersonal skills to cultivate relationships with musicians, artists, donors and community partners.
• Experience in fundraising, marketing and financial management.
• Technical proficiency with MS Office required; QuickBooks and relevant software (i.e. Charity Proud, Canva) experience desired.
• Passion for music and live performances. 

About Our Community: Summerville & the Lowcountry

Summerville is more than a charming Southern town—it’s a growing Village of the Arts. We’re home to the Flowertown Players, the Public Works Arts Center, Summerville DREAM, the beloved Flowertown Festival, and a year-round calendar of creative events that enrich life for residents and visitors alike.

Summerville was ranked in 2024 as fastest-growing community in the U.S.  Located just 25 miles from Charleston, Summerville offers easy access to world-class dining, historic architecture, pristine beaches, and a thriving cultural scene that spans music, theater, visual art and literature. The tri-county Lowcountry region offers both small-town warmth and big-city vibrancy—with great schools, a strong economy and a high quality of life.

How to Apply

To apply, please send a résumé and cover letter outlining your interest and qualifications to EDsearch@summervilleorchestra.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with priority given to those received by Aug. 15. Deadline Sept. 1. All inquiries and submissions will be kept confidential.

About Summerville Orchestra

The Summerville Orchestra was founded 22 years ago by a small group of amateur musicians who gathered for one reason: the sheer joy of playing music together. We partner with local restaurants, coffee houses, live theater companies, the Public Works Art Center, libraries, and public parks to present free and low-cost performances throughout Summerville. While we’ve grown by leaps and bounds—doubling our budget in the last four years, launching a long-envisioned Youth Philharmonic and expanding to more than 30 annual performances. Today, we’re an 80-member volunteer orchestra that includes some of the finest musicians in the area, alongside emerging youth and devoted amateur players. We’ve commissioned original works, performed world premieres, and in 2023, under the visionary leadership of our nationally recognized Music Director Wojciech Milewski we were honored as Best Performing Community Orchestra in the Nation by The American Prize.

Connections working at Summerville Orchestra