General Manager

Job Summary

Sestina Music is a dynamic vocal ensemble specialising in the performance of early music. Founded in Belfast in 2011 by Mark Chambers, who remains the ensemble’s Musical Director, Sestina Music has a reputation for excellence and authenticity in early music.

Job Description

ABOUT THE ROLE

Working with the Musical Director, the General Manager is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the organisation and coordinating a busy season of concerts and events, as well as assisting, with the direction of the Musical Director, in long term strategic planning.

Sestina Music operates with a voluntary board who meet on a quarterly basis, the General Manager should be a self-driven, detail-oriented individual who thrives when working independently.

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA

1 University degree or professional qualification, preferably in Arts Administration

2 2-3 years of experience of project and event management preferably in the arts sector

3 Highly motivated, organised and able to work independently

4 Excellent written and verbal communication skills

5 Capacity to supervise contracted artists, workers and facilitators

6 Flexibility to work evenings and weekends, and to travel outside of Northern Ireland for concerts and events as required

7 Excellent knowledge of social media platforms, and experience in producing content for the purpose of promoting events

8 Experience of financial management and bookkeeping

9 A full UK drivers’ licence and access to own vehicle

10 Clear Access NI check

11 A track record in drafting successful funding applications

DESIRABLE CRITERIA

1 An interest in classical music, and working knowledge of professional music ensembles and concerts

2 Experience in video editing and website management and platforms (for example, Affinity, Photoshop, Canva, Wix)

3 Ability to work and adapt to changing circumstances and unexpected challenges

HOW TO APPLY

Please send a CV and covering letter (max. 3 pages) explaining how you meet the criteria to

info@sestinamusic.com by 5pm on 29 November 2024

Job Requirements

JOB DESCRIPTION

1. Operational

• Assist the Musical Director in managing Sestina Music’s annual concert season
• Negotiate contracts with artists and partner organisations primarily in consultation with and at the direction of the Musical Director
• Supervise contracted performers, workers and facilitators at concerts
• Coordinate the organisation’s education and outreach activities
• Manage logistics for concerts and tours, such as collating and distributing music, venue bookings, artist transport and accommodation, staging and lighting provision
• Manage online ticket booking for concerts and events e.g. via Eventbrite or similar online ticketing platforms
• Manage box office and front of house arrangements for concerts and events, organising volunteers where required
• Responses to email, website and telephone enquiries

• Liaising with public bodies, key stakeholders and partners as necessary

2. Finance

• Work with the Treasurer and Musical Director to manage annual and project budgets

Job Responsibilities

WORKING HOURS AND LOCATION

This role is offered on a 3-day per week (8 hours per day) permanent basis and is subject to annual funding. Hourly rate £18-£20 per hour depending on experience. Due to the nature of the work, hours can be inconsistent and unpredictable; therefore, flexibility in working hours and the ability to work evenings and weekends around events is essential. Where additional event-work is required, Sestina Music offers time off in lieu. The role is a remote-working (working from home) role. The successful candidate will be required to travel away from home for concerts and events; in such cases, accommodation and reasonable expenses are provided, such concerts may be outside Northern Ireland.