SOUTH BEND — The South Bend Symphony Orchestra announced the appointment of Steven Haines as its new executive director in a press release issued Tuesday, July 8.
He replaces Justus Zimmerman, who left in late January after five years to become the executive director of the Austin Symphony Orchestra in Texas.
Haines begins work Monday, Aug. 4.
He currently serves as executive director of the Symphony of the Americas in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and has more than 30 years of experience in arts leadership, fundraising, marketing and strategic growth.
The appointment was unanimously approved by both the Search Committee and the Executive Committee, the release said.
“Steven brings a passion for music and community that aligns perfectly with our mission,” Music Director Alastair Willis said in the release. “I look forward to working closely with him as we embark on an exciting new chapter for the South Bend Symphony.”
Haines’ prior leadership roles include president and CEO of Peter Nero and the Philly Pops, vice president of The Philadelphia Orchestra, and CEO of The Young Americans, an international performing arts organization and college.
He also has served as president and CEO of the Tucson Symphony Orchestra in Arizona, executive director of San Francisco’s Stern Grove Festival, and as vice president for growth and marketing at the San Francisco Zoo.
In the press release, Haines said he wants to work with Willis and SBSO Board of Directors President Susan Ohmer “to broaden and deepen the Symphony’s role as a vibrant, accessible cultural cornerstone. A symphony orchestra belongs to its community — it inspires connection and should be a place where everyone feels welcome.”
For more information, visit southbendsymphony.org.
This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: 30-year veteran arts leader named executive director of South Bend Symphony Orchestra
Reporting by Andrew S. Hughes, South Bend Tribune / South Bend Tribune
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
