Dean and Chief Artistic Officer

The New England Conservatory of Music (“the Conservatory” or “NEC”), an international leader among schools of music, seeks an inaugural Dean and Chief Artistic Officer (CRO) to join its leadership team and guide the college’s artistic affairs. This person will be an innovative and collaborative leader, ensuring the delivery of high-quality programs that foster artistic and educational excellence, and driving innovation in teaching and learning towards student success and professional preparation. As the institution’s chief artistic officer, this person will oversee essential functions connected to artistic affairs (encompassing classical, jazz, and contemporary musical arts), including relevant faculty, artistic programming, artistic operations and administration, student and campus life, and production and venue management. Additionally, the CRO will function as a key partner to the Vice President for Enrollment Management and Chief Growth Officer. 

Reporting to the president and a member of NEC’s Leadership Council, the CRO will partner closely with executive leadership, other senior administrators, faculty, staff, and the Board of Trustees to advance NEC’s educational mission, goals, and strategic priorities. The CRO will work in close partnership with the Dean and Chief Academic Officer (CAO) to create and develop innovative and integrative curricula that support artistic growth, connect disciplines, develop an entrepreneurial skill set, encourage community engagement, and promote student success and retention.

The CRO will supervise a team of five direct reports in this work, including the Dean of Students and Campus Life; the Executive Director of Production and Event Services; the Director of Performance Administration; the Director of Artistic Programming and Administration; and the Administrative Director of Piano Services.

All inquiries, nominations, and applications should be directed to the search firm electronically below.

Katie Rockman is leading this search with Keith Mason, Diana Carmona, and Maria Connor.