Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance

Managing Director

About Lyric Fest

Lyric Fest (LF) is a Philadelphia-based vocal arts organization dedicated to celebrating and expanding the art song tradition through imaginative programming, new commissions and dynamic collaborations.  Founded in 2003, LF presents concerts that unite song, poetry,  storytelling, and foster connection between artists and audiences.  Now celebrating its 23rd season, LF is proud to have produced and presented over 100 distinctly crafted and curated concert programs.  Each has featured multiple artists of national and international stature.  The organization has defined commissioning new works as an integral part of its mission and programming philosophy.  To date, LF has commissioned an impressive body of more than 200 new American songs from many of the nation’s preeminent composers.  LF is run by two of its founders, Artistic Directors Suzanne DuPlantis and Laura Ward.  Known for its excellence and innovation in creating rich, thematic, accessible concerts, LF performs throughout the Philadelphia region, and across the U.S.

 

Position Overview

Lyric Fest seeks a strategic, collaborative, and highly organized Managing Director to serve as co-leader of the organization alongside the Co-Artistic Directors.  The Managing Director ensures operational excellence and sustainability through leadership in marketing, fundraising, administration, finance and public relations.

 

  • This is a part-time (20 hours per week) position with a salary of $40,000 annually. The Managing Director reports jointly to the Board of Directors and Co-Artistic Directors. The role allows for a hybrid work schedule, with in-person attendance required for concerts, events and meetings.
  • Manage and execute front of house ticketing/audience interaction 
  • The performance season runs from late September through mid-May, with limited summer responsibilities. 
  • Desired start date - January 1, 2026

 

 

Key Responsibilities

 

Leadership and Strategy

 

  • Co-lead long-range planning with Artistic Directors and Board of Directors
  • Build and maintain relationships with donors, media, collaborative partners, funders, and community stakeholders
  • Develop and implement goals, plans, and systems for marketing, fundraising, and financial health in collaboration with Co-Artistic Directors
  • Provide administrative support for the Board and foster engagement, including recruitment and orientation.  Serve as the primary liaison between the staff and the Board (including the Ambassadors Council).

 

  

Marketing and Communications

 

  • Develop and execute an annual communications plan: Marketing and PR, Audience communication in collaboration with Co-Artistic Directors
  • Increase LF’s visibility and brand identity locally and nationally
  • Manage and execute website, social media, email communications, press releases, and media relationships
  • Set and track audience growth goals, including segmentation and retention strategies

 

Fundraising

 

  • Develop annual and multi-year fundraising goal strategies in collaboration with Co-Artistic Directors
  • Identify and cultivate donors, sponsors, and institutional funders
  • Write and submit grants in collaboration with Co-Artistic Directors
  • Oversee annual fund campaigns, events and donor stewardship
  • Manage donor database and reporting

 

Required Skills and Experience

 

  • 3 - 5 years of progressive experience in arts administration or nonprofit management
  • Proven success in marketing, fundraising, and strategic planning
  • Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines

If applying, please demonstrate level of experience with the following platforms:

Donor Perfect, QuickBooks, WordPress, All Microsoft Office Products, PayPal, Ticket leap, Docusign, Google Apps, Dropbox, Canva, Final Cut Pro, InDesign/Creative Suites