Orchestra Iowa’s board of directors has hired Aspen Leadership Group (ALG) to perform a national search for the orchestra’s permanent chief executive officer, according to a news release from Orchestra Iowa.
ALG’s senior search consultants have decades of experience in nonprofit leadership. The firm has led searches for CEO/executive director roles for orchestras across the country, including the Reno Philharmonic, the Kansas City Symphony, the Richmond (VA) Symphony, the Symphony of Northwest Arkansas, and the New York Philharmonic.
“I’m so pleased our board has agreed to engage the team at ALG,” said Lisa Rhatigan, board chair, in a news release. “We are impressed with their experience recruiting non-profit executives and specifically with the depth they have with orchestras nationally. I’m confident their process will result in our finding the right person to lead Orchestra Iowa into its second century.”
Orchestra Iowa is embarking on this search to replace Jeff Collier, who resigned in August 2023. Linda Barnes, former CEO of Geonetric, has been serving as interim CEO since Mr. Collier’s departure.
“With Linda in place as interim CEO, the board has been able to take our time to find the right partner for this important search,” said Ms. Rhatigan. “Our operations are running smoothly and performances this season have been stunning and well-received by audiences.”
The team at ALG plans to conduct a series of interviews with board members, orchestra staff, musicians, and community stakeholders to help define the role, responsibilities, qualifications, and appropriate experience needed for the position. Once this initial research is complete, ALG completes an extensive recruiting and interviewing process to identify, qualify and present candidates for the position to the board.
“I’m looking forward to working with Aspen Leadership Group,” said Tim Hankewich, music
director. “They will be an excellent partner. I know our orchestra will be in great shape to welcome the new leader they help us find.”
Orchestra Iowa, founded in 1923, recently wrapped up a centennial celebration during its 2022-23 season. The orchestra also operates the Orchestra Iowa School, providing lessons, youth choruses, and youth education programs.
