Opera Company Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of performing arts, the role of an Opera Company Manager has never been more vital.
As the world of opera evolves, the demand for skilled individuals who can manage, develop, and maintain the organization’s prestige grows exponentially.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an Opera Company Manager?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
- A hiring manager creating a profile for the perfect candidate,
- Or simply fascinated by the inner workings of an opera company,
You’re in the right place.
Today, we present a customizable Opera Company Manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right into it.
Opera Company Manager Duties and Responsibilities
Opera Company Managers play a crucial role in the successful production and performance of operas.
They oversee the administration, production, marketing, and financial management aspects of the company.
They are responsible for a wide variety of tasks, including:
- Oversee the daily operations of the opera company
- Coordinate with directors, performers, and production staff to ensure smooth operation
- Manage financial aspects of the company, including budget development, fundraising efforts, and financial reporting
- Oversee marketing and promotion for performances and events
- Recruit, hire, and manage personnel, including performers, technical staff, and administrative staff
- Negotiate contracts with performers, sponsors, and other business partners
- Ensure compliance with relevant regulations and standards
- Plan and schedule performances and other events
- Work closely with artistic director to plan and develop future productions
- Maintain strong relationships with the local community, donors, and media
- Ensure the quality of performances by regularly reviewing and providing feedback
Opera Company Manager Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are looking for an experienced and passionate Opera Company Manager to join our team.
The Opera Company Manager will be responsible for overseeing all day-to-day operations, managing the budget and finances, coordinating with artists and staff, and ensuring successful performances and events.
The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of opera and theater production, excellent managerial skills, and a passion for the performing arts.
Responsibilities
- Coordinate and manage all aspects of opera production and events
- Oversee the budget and manage finances
- Arrange contracts for artists, staff, and venues
- Manage staff and volunteers, ensuring effective communication and teamwork
- Work closely with the artistic director and other stakeholders to realize the company’s vision
- Ensure compliance with regulations and safety standards
- Handle public relations and represent the company at events
- Manage marketing and promotional activities
- Maintain and build relationships with sponsors, donors, and the community
Qualifications
- Proven experience as a company manager or similar role in the performing arts sector
- Knowledge of opera and theater production processes
- Strong understanding of budgeting and financial management
- Excellent leadership and team management skills
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple tasks
- Bachelor’s degree in Arts Management, Business, or related field
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Opportunities for professional development and networking
- Access to performances and events
Additional Information
- Job Title: Opera Company Manager
- Work Environment: Office environment with frequent evening and weekend work for performances and events. Some travel may be required.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Board of Directors or Artistic Director.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: To be discussed during interview
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does an Opera Company Manager Do?
Opera Company Managers oversee all aspects of an opera company’s operations, ensuring smooth functioning and successful performances.
They are responsible for coordinating the production, marketing, fundraising, and financial management of the company.
They work closely with directors, conductors, and performers to ensure that all productions are executed according to plan.
This includes scheduling rehearsals, securing performance venues, and coordinating with the technical team for set, costume, and lighting design.
Opera Company Managers are also involved in the casting process.
They often work with casting directors to select performers that best fit the roles available.
They may also be involved in contract negotiations with performers and other staff members.
Another important aspect of their role is financial management.
They are responsible for budgeting for each production, tracking expenses, and ensuring that the company operates within its financial means.
This includes finding ways to increase revenue, such as through ticket sales, fundraising events, and securing sponsorships.
Additionally, Opera Company Managers play a key role in marketing and publicity efforts.
They work to promote the opera company and its productions, attract audiences, and maintain strong relationships with media outlets, sponsors, and the larger community.
They may also oversee the educational outreach programs of the opera company, working to engage the local community and inspire a love for opera among people of all ages.
Opera Company Managers need to have a strong understanding of opera and the performing arts industry, as well as excellent organizational, financial, and people management skills.
They often work long hours, especially during production periods, and must be able to handle stress and solve problems effectively.
Opera Company Manager Qualifications and Skills
An Opera Company Manager needs to possess a range of skills and qualifications that align with the responsibilities of the role, which include:
- Strong knowledge of opera, including its history, music, production, and performance aspects, to effectively manage the company’s operations and productions.
- Excellent leadership and managerial skills to oversee the company’s staff, budget, and daily operations.
- Superior communication and interpersonal skills to liaise with different stakeholders such as artists, producers, directors, sponsors, and the media.
- Organizational skills and attention to detail to plan and coordinate rehearsals, performances, and tours, ensuring all activities run smoothly and efficiently.
- Financial management skills to manage the company’s budget, control costs, and generate income through ticket sales, fundraising, and sponsorship.
- Problem-solving and decision-making skills to address any issues or challenges that may arise in the course of production and performance.
- Ability to work under pressure and handle multiple tasks, as managing an opera company requires overseeing multiple areas simultaneously, including casting, design, rehearsal, and performance.
Opera Company Manager Experience Requirements
Opera Company Managers typically require several years of experience in performing arts administration, event management, or a related field.
This role requires a strong understanding of the nuances of opera production and management.
Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through an internship or part-time role in an opera company or performing arts organization.
These individuals may have worked in roles such as Assistant Stage Manager, Production Assistant, or Administrative Assistant in the performing arts sector.
Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often have developed their knowledge of opera production and management in roles such as Stage Manager, Production Manager, or Administrative Officer in an opera company.
Those with more than 5 years of experience are usually expected to have some leadership experience in their background and may be ready for an Opera Company Manager position.
Such individuals may have previously held positions such as Assistant Opera Company Manager, Artistic Director, or General Manager in a performing arts organization.
In addition to the above, a deep passion for opera and a profound understanding of its various aspects – from staging to marketing – are integral to this role.
Opera Company Manager Education and Training Requirements
Opera Company Managers typically hold a bachelor’s degree in arts administration, music or a related field.
They should have a thorough understanding of opera and classical music and often have experience in a theater or performance setting.
In addition to understanding the art form, managers must also possess strong business management skills.
Many pursue further education by obtaining a master’s degree in arts administration or business administration.
Opera Company Managers often gain experience through internships or volunteer positions at opera companies or other performing arts organizations.
These experiences provide practical knowledge of the daily operations and challenges in managing an opera company.
Further skills in marketing, fundraising, public relations, and event planning can be beneficial.
Opera Company Managers should also be familiar with contracts and negotiations, as they often deal with artists, suppliers, and venue operators.
Although not required, some individuals may pursue advanced certifications in non-profit management or arts administration to demonstrate their dedication to the field and enhance their professional skills.
Foreign language skills, especially in Italian, German, and French – the languages of many classic operas – are also often beneficial to communicate with international artists and understand operatic works.
Experience in the music industry and a passion for opera are fundamental in this role.
Opera Company Manager Salary Expectations
An Opera Company Manager can expect to earn an average salary of $70,000 (USD) per year.
However, this can vary significantly depending on factors such as the size and prestige of the opera company, the manager’s previous experience, and the location of the company.
For instance, an Opera Company Manager working in a large, well-known company in a major city could potentially earn upwards of $100,000 per year.
Opera Company Manager Job Description FAQs
What skills does an Opera Company Manager need?
Opera Company Managers should have excellent organizational and administrative skills, the ability to multitask and work under pressure.
They also need good interpersonal skills to liaise with a variety of people, such as performers, directors, designers, and backstage crew.
Knowledge of opera and the performing arts industry is also crucial.
Do Opera Company Managers need a degree?
While a degree is not strictly necessary, many Opera Company Managers have a degree in arts administration, music, theater or a related field.
Experience in arts management, possibly as an assistant or deputy, is usually more important.
What should you look for in an Opera Company Manager resume?
Look for experience in managing performing arts organizations, ideally in opera.
Experience with budgeting, scheduling, hiring, and contract negotiation is also important.
Good candidates may also have experience in fundraising or grant writing.
What qualities make a good Opera Company Manager?
A good Opera Company Manager is a visionary leader who can inspire and motivate a team.
They have excellent communication skills and can handle a variety of tasks simultaneously.
They have a deep understanding of opera and a genuine passion for the arts.
Good problem-solving skills are also a must.
How demanding is the role of an Opera Company Manager?
The role of an Opera Company Manager can be quite demanding.
It involves dealing with high levels of stress, especially during the production season, and often requires long and irregular hours.
However, the satisfaction of putting on successful shows can make it a very rewarding job.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Today, we’ve raised the curtain on what it truly means to be an Opera Company Manager.
And guess what?
It’s not just about managing a team or organizing performances.
It’s about orchestrating a harmonious future, one opera at a time.
With our handy Opera Company Manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the stage.
But why end the encore here?
Take a bow and then dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next act in creating precision-crafted listings or fine-tuning your resume to pitch-perfect precision.
Remember:
Every opera company’s success is part of a grander opera.
Let’s create that future. Together.
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