Operations Manager, National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) and Choirs

Operations Manager, National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) and ChoirsThe National Symphony Orchestra (NSO), a major keystone of Ireland's cultural and musical heritage, is in an exciting phase of growth, development and change with significant Government investment, having transferred from RTE to the National Concert Hall (NCH) in 2022. The NCH is putting the NSO at the heart of its’ programme, fostering its development and reputation as Irelands’ nationally and internationally respected Symphony Orchestra. The NSO performs a season of over seventy events per annum at the National Concert Hall in Dublin as well as undertaking a touring programme, family concerts and a range of commercial opportunities. In addition, NSO produces broadcasts, film and audio recordings as well as educational concerts and events. In addition to the NSO there are three choirs consisting of 250 singers, families,  volunteers and professional music staff.A number of exciting permanent roles are being advertised as part of the development plan for the NSO. This role is for the Operations Manager, NSO and Choirs.Job Purpose            The Operations Manager is responsible for developing world class systems, processes, and resource management to enable the development and reputation of the NSO choirs nationally and internationally.The Operations Manager is responsible for ensuring the scheduling,  production and logistics management of all orchestral and choral events (concerts, rehearsals, tours, special events) run smoothly, effectively and in a financially responsible way that meets the objectives of the NCH and NSO. Reporting to the Geneal Manager the Operations Manager will manage oversee the Orchestra Manager and support team.Main ResponsibilitiesConcert Production and Planning·       Plan and co-ordinate the medium to long term programme of work for the orchestra and choirs, working with key stakeholders;  Chief Conductor, General Manager, Concerts and Planning Coordinator NSO, and operations team. Operation Management  ·       Project manage the sourcing and implementation of a new orchestra management software system to drive resource management and maximise ·       To develop world class systems, processes, procedures and ways of working to drive a high performance culture for the orchestra and choirs.·       To ensure that documented Standard Operating Procedures are in place.·       To monitor and review the effectiveness and effiency of the orchestral and choral systems and ways of working to ensure they are fit for purpose.·       To sustain the ongoing operational management of the orchestra and choirs with the Orchestra Manager, Choral Administrator and support teams.·       To approve final stage plans and stage logistics for performances, tours and events·       To supervise all logistical arrangements required for overseas touring activities of the orchestra and choirs.  ·       To engage in and oversee the general activities of the orchestra and choirs such as attendance at meetings, promotional activity, outreach and learning work as required. Be an ambassador for the NCH and NSO during these activities. ·       Deputise for the General Manager as required.Financial Management ·       To review the orchestral and choral direct programming costs, capital and operating budgets with the General Manager and monitor costs against budget, providing scheduled updates and reports.·       To approve the final schedule and overtime management of the Orchestral Assistants, orchestra and relevant choral staff.People Management ·       To implement, build and maintain a creative culture aligned with the NCH and NSO  vision and strategy. ·       With the support of the Orchestra Manager and Choral Administrator, oversee orchestral and choral personnel, recruitment, health and safety, discipline and other related matters.·       Constantly review and update orchestral and choral health and safety policies and risk assessments with the General Manager, Orchestra Manager, Choral Administrator, NCH Head of Operations, Head of Finance and HR Business Partners.Industrial Relations ·       Engage with employee Unions supported by HR, the Orchestra Manager and Choral Administrator.·       To be a role model for the NCH and NSO values and to work in accordance with the NCH/Forsa/SIPTU/MUI Agreements and all other NCH policies and guidelines, including health and safety.Person Specification ·       Significant experience in the production of live (including outdoor) events and concert logistical management. ·       A minimum of 5 years experience leading large teams in a similar role.·       Third level education in a relevant discipline or equivalent experience.·       Significant interest in classical, choral and orchestral music.·       Strong budgetary and financial acumen in entertainment industry, ideally with an orchestra or other music ensemble.·       Knowlede of CAD, orchestral software, and Microsoft 365 packages.·       Excellent logistical management skills. ·       Experience of orchestral or ensemble management and contracts. ·       Knowlege of radio, TV and online programme making techniques desirable. ·       Ability to deal with interpersonal conflict and be able to resolve situations amicably with tact, sensitivity and diplomacy.·       Be self motivated and commtted to working irregular and unsocial hours when required nationally or internationally. ·       An ability to work calmly and efficiently under pressure is essential.·       Negotation skills.·       Excellent communication and personal skills. The above Job Description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all duties involved and consequently, the post holder may be required to perform other duties as appropriate to the post which may be assigned from time to time and to contribute to the development of the role in line with ongoing change within NCH.Key Relationships:             Internal: NCH CEO (Chief Executive Officer), General Manager NSO and Choirs, Senior Leadership Team, NSO management and musicians team inc. Orchestra Manager, Planning and Event Coordinator, Artists, Chief Conductor, Principal Guest Conductor and Associate Artists, Marketing and Operations Admin; Choral Administrator and support team, Other NCH employees as required.External: Venues in Ireland and overseas, inc. Music and cultural sector, public bodies, media, government.Working WeekThe standard working week applying to this role is 35 hours net. As this is a senior management role the successful candidate will be expected to work reasonable hours required to deliver the agenda, including late evenings, shifts and weekends. No additional payment will be paid in lieu of these hours. There will be a requirement for the post holder to work in other locations outside of the NCH, Dublin.Annual Leave            28 daysPension Details:Single Public Sector Pension Scheme.Pay: The Higher Executive Officer (HEO) salary scale applies (rates effective from 1 March 2023) as follows:€53,955 €55,532 €57,106 €58,680 €60,259 €61,831 €63,407 €65,682 LSI 1 €67,951 LSI 2Please note that appointment will be made at the first point on this salary scale.How to apply: Please attach Cover Letter & CV in one document.  Closing Date: 9th June 2023.   It is important to note that the NCH are proud to be an inclusive, equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunities regardless of Gender, Civil Status, Family Status, Sexual Orientation, Religion, Age, Disability, Race, Membership of the Traveller Community or any other characteristic protected by the Equality Act.