PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

The Music School of Delaware, heading into its second century of providing music education and experiences to all ages and abilities in Delaware and surrounding communities, is seeking to hire a seasoned nonprofit leader to serve as its President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The CEO will be responsible for the school’s day-to-day operations and working towards the school’s strategic goals: that all community members have affordable access to outstanding music and music instruction; that all feel welcome and heard and see themselves and their culture represented in the school's work; that faculty and staff are rewarded for their talent and work; and that the community and the school have a state-of-the-art venue for the 21st century. 

JOB SUMMARY:

Reporting to the board of directors, the CEO will have overall strategic and operational responsibility for leading a strong, professional staff of more than 20 employees and an additional 85+ music instructors.  The CEO will collaborate with the school’s Dean, who supervises music education and programming, to provide excellence in music education and experiences for people of all ages and abilities.

In addition to managing the school’s ongoing activities, the CEO will develop and lead an ambitious vision to build upon the school’s century of success by strengthening the school’s operations and outreach.  

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:

The CEO serves as the organization’s principal leader and visionary, responsible for strategic direction, operational excellence, and financial sustainability.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership and vision for the school. Working closely with the board of directors to support the school’s continued growth and development, including strategic planning and oversight, by attending board meetings and providing periodic reports.
• Provide financial management and oversight; oversee budgeting, financial reporting, and long‑term financial planning, ensuring fiscal responsibility.
• Work with the school’s Dean to ensure high‑quality music education and programming for community members of all ages and abilities.

• Work with the Director of Development to develop an annual fundraising plan that implements strategies to meet funding needs for general operating and special-project funding, and cultivate relationships with donors, foundations, corporations and community stakeholders.
• Recruit, develop, and retain a high‑performing, diverse staff and faculty; inspire a workplace culture grounded in collaboration, equity, and innovation.
• Serve as the chief spokesperson, and an effective advocate and ambassador for the school, elevating the school’s profile through media, public speaking, and community events.
• Supervise marketing and communications strategies to engage constituents and amplify stories.
• Ensure compliance with legal regulations, IRS requirements, and best practices for nonprofit governance.
• Identify and mitigate organizational risks related to operations, finance, reputation, and security.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience Requirements:

• Non-profit arts experience. 
• Minimum of 5 years of senior-level non-profit management experience, including significant experience in financial management, strategic planning, and budgeting.
• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Demonstrated success in developing or participating in fundraising campaigns and donor relations.
• Proven ability to manage and lead diverse teams, with strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Experience in music education and/or performance is an asset.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong business and financial acumen including budgeting and P&L oversight.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking and storytelling.
• Ability to build and lead diverse teams and foster an inclusive work environment.
• Ability to inspire and mobilize staff, faculty, board members, and volunteers.
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical skills and the ability to translate vision into action.

Compensation and Benefits

Salary range: $120,000 - $135,000 (dependent on experience) plus incentive compensation.

The Music School of Delaware offers a competitive benefits package including medical coverage,  generous paid time off policies, and a flexible working environment.

ABOUT THE MUSIC SCHOOL OF DELAWARE

Incorporated in 1925, The Music School of Delaware is the only statewide, accredited, community music school in the nation, serving residents of Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Maryland.  The Music School has branches in Wilmington and Milford and provides instruction at additional satellite locations.

As a community resource open to the public, the school employs more than 85+ musical experts and offers outstanding instructional programs for people of all ages and abilities. It offers more than 100 public performances each year, providing opportunities for everyone to enjoy exceptional music in a variety of styles and genres. Both on-site and virtual programming is available, including private lessons in approximately 30 instruments and voice; early childhood classes; Suzuki method programs; orchestral, choral, chamber music, and small ensembles for children and adults ages 4 months to 80+ years; group and beginner class instruction; music history and musicianship classes; and programs especially for adults. Classical, rock, jazz, and folk genres are all taught at the school.

As a non-profit organization, the mission of The Music School of Delaware is to provide excellence in music education, training, and experiences for everyone. Fostering individual advancement of music skills, knowledge, and appreciation, as well as providing a foundation for many types of musical expression while preserving the traditions of classical music training and performance, are key goals of the school. The aim of making music instruction accessible to all is supported by scholarship programs for those with financial need and those with special merits.

The Music School of Delaware is one of 13 community institutions in the US that is nationally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Pre-Collegiate Arts Schools, and by the National Association of Schools of Music, and is a charter member of the National Guild for Community Arts Education.

The Music School of Delaware is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

HOW TO APPLY: 

Please submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references to cwatson@blackwellhr.com by May 30th. In your cover letter, please describe your leadership philosophy and alignment with the responsibilities and qualifications of the role .