The Job

The Artist Development Manager executes Music Forward’s emerging artist programming, guiding aspiring artists to discover Music Forward and navigate programs and performance opportunities which range from open mics, coaching sessions and Spotlight performances to unique partnership projects, brand engagement experiences, and paid performances.

The Manager is project lead for all artist pathway programs. As lead, the Manager drives development of program materials, workshop content, and helps develop and implement a strategy that identifies, recruits and retains participants nationwide. Ensuring equity, the Manager drives an artist grants process, and works with local staff and experts to help artists bring their craft to the next level.

The Manager supports securing and management of local performances for programs and alumni and provides on the ground support for key alumni opportunities. This position reports to the Director of Education. The Manager is expected to supervise and coach Artist Development Interns, as well as manage related contractors.

The Details
Lead programs and processes for artist development:

o   Identify programs, mentorship and performance opportunities that supports the individual growth of emerging artists with varying levels of knowledge and skills in performance and music business acumen

o   In collaboration with the Director of Education, develop outcomes driven curriculum for young emerging artists; identify relevant artist development workshop topics, outcomes, and curriculum and assessment strategies

o   Recruit young artists and build partnerships from around the country to ensure the growth of a diverse group of artists, representing a variety of musical genres

o   Develop written processes and internal trainings to support efficiency and efficacy of programs

o   Serve as lead for the overall selection, planning and implementation of All Access Fest career fair artist engagement path

o   Manage awards, gear, and brand opportunities to support artist development in collaboration with executive team

·       Manage artist and alumni engagement opportunities: Develop and implement systems and processes for Music Forward’s alumni that identify levels of proficiency and associated next step opportunities including, but not limited to; mentorship and gig opportunities. Provide input and content for related promotional and engagement strategies. Work closely with Operations, Marketing, and Strategic Partnership departments to integrate into organizational processes.

·       Cultivate and coordinate industry relations: The Manager works with the Director of Strategic Partnerships to cultivate, train, place, and steward industry professionals who participate in year-round panels, workshops, and special events. Serve as liaison for organizational partnerships when appropriate.

·       Be an active member of our team: take initiative in support of our organizational strategies by brainstorming, researching and proposing strategic individual and corporate targets; participate in required staff calls and meetings; support additional duties as assigned. Stay informed and on top of music industry news, new technology and trends.

What you bring
·       5+ years of experience working in the music industry

·       Artist development experience required

·       Project management experience that includes working with youth and skilled volunteers from a variety of backgrounds

·       Strong interpersonal, written and verbal communication and collaboration skills

·       Strong organizational and project planning skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks while maintaining attention to detail

·       Has a growth mindset, open to training, feedback, as well as a self-driven learner

·       High level of comfort working across a diverse staff and constituent base, and conscientious of reaching out with an inclusive voice

·       Sound judgment, commitment to high professional ethical standards, and a positive “can-do” attitude

·       Proven capacity to work individually and cooperatively as part of a team

·       Comfort working in a fast-paced environment

·       Ability to work independently and complete job requirements without direct supervision

·       Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

·       Familiarity with a CRM database, Salesforce preferred

·       A personal cell phone and car or regular access to reliable transportation, and a willingness to travel in the community for site visits and events. Mileage is reimbursed per federal rates for work related travel (not regular commuting). A valid driver’s license and proof of car insurance required for business driving.

·       Flexibility to work and travel for some early morning, evenings and/or weekends for programs and special events as needed

This is a full-time, exempt position. Excellent full-time employment benefits include 100% employer paid medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance plans, paid parking, and access to tickets and discount perks, as well as pre-tax spending accounts (health, dependent care, transportation).

To apply:
Email your resume, cover letter, and three professional references to jobs@musicforwardfoundation.org. Subject “Artist Development Manager – YOUR NAME”

Music Forward is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or any of employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.