General Director
DESCRIPTION
POSITION SUMMARY
The General Director acts as the chief executive officer of Portland Opera, reporting directly to the board of directors. In partnership with the board, the General Director offers strategic and visionary leadership to promote the company’s mission, achieve the objectives of its strategic plan, maintain long-term artistic and organizational strength, and cultivate donors through a consistent development strategy. Working closely with the artistic director, music director, senior leadership team, and staff, the General Director champions Portland Opera’s artistic vision, fosters a vibrant and inclusive organizational culture, and strengthens the company’s relationship with audiences and the wider community.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
The General Director is responsible for the overall leadership and management of the organization, including:
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Strategic and Organizational Leadership: Partners with the board to provide visionary and strategic direction for the company, ensuring alignment among artistic excellence, financial sustainability, and community relevance. Serve as a local and regional community leader in arts and culture.
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Financial Management: Oversees the organization’s financial system and health, including budgeting, forecasting, and fiscal accountability, to ensure stability and growth with transparency, financial acumen, and clear communication.
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Fundraising and External Relations: Leads and actively participates in fundraising initiatives, cultivating strong relationships with donors, patrons, corporate partners, foundations, and public agencies.
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Community Engagement: Serves as a visible and passionate ambassador and advocate for Portland Opera and the arts at the regional and national level by strengthening connections with audiences, civic leaders, and cultural partners to enhance the company’s presence and impact.
Board Relations: Collaborates closely with the board as an ex officio member, supporting effective governance, strategic planning, and financial health.
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Operational and Staff Leadership: Inspires and leads a talented team, fostering a transparent, collaborative, and inclusive work environment that empowers staff and artists to excel.
KEY QUALIFICATIONS:
Leadership Experience: At least five (5) years of cumulative leadership in a performing arts or cultural organization. If the leadership background is in a different field, candidates should demonstrate experience and understanding as a performing artist. Experience with opera or classical art forms is strongly preferred.
Financial: Strong financial management skills, including experience with budgeting, financial reporting, an understanding of the economic structures unique to nonprofit and performing arts organizations, and the ability to identify and secure diverse revenue streams.
Strategic Acumen: A strategic and creative approach to leadership, with proven experience in developing and implementing growth strategies that enhance artistic vitality and ensure organizational sustainability.
Philanthropy: A proven track record of securing major gifts, corporate sponsorships, and grants, along with planning and executing fundraising campaigns and special events that promote artistic and organizational objectives.
Interpersonal Skills: Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills to engage effectively with the organization’s staff and many constituencies, with the ability to serve as an inspiring ambassador for the organization and to build meaningful relationships with donors, patrons, artists, and community partners.
Leadership Style: A transparent, evidence-based decision-maker with a collaborative management approach that fosters trust, values staff and artists' expertise, and has proven experience working effectively within a unionized workplace.
Community Engagement and Advocacy: A strong commitment to engaging with the community and promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging within the arts/culture organizational landscape.
Board Relations: Demonstrated experience working with a board to increase their engagement in fundraising, governance, and ambassador roles.
Educational Attainment: A bachelor’s degree is required; an advanced degree or relevant professional certification is preferred.
SALARY RANGE: 150000 - 165000
Desired Start Date: February 1, 2026
BENEFITS
Pay Range: $150,000 - $165,000 Annual
Our benefits start the 1st of the month following your start date and include:
Medical, Dental, and Vision options
HSA/FSA
- Long-term disabilit
HOW TO APPLY
Confidential review of applications will begin
immediately and continue until the position has
been filled. For full consideration, individuals are
encouraged to apply by December 15, 2025.
Please apply online by submitting a PDF version of your resume/CV and a cover letter that addresses your interest and
related qualifications and experience. To apply online, go to: https://theapplicantmanager.com/jobs?pos=su480
For more information or to offer recommendations or nominations:
Caitlin Hummel Lyndi Hewitt, PhD
Senior Consultant Senior Consultant
Summit Search Solutions, Inc. Summit Search Solutions, Inc.
(585) 880-7550 (615) 423-0525
chummel@summitsearchsolutions.com lhewitt@summitsearchsolutions.com
Portland Opera will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color,
national origin, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, religion, disability, protected
veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.
Portland Opera is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization and an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Application Deadline: December 15, 2025
Application Email/Link: theapplicantmanager.com/jobs?pos=su480