Job Description:
Berklee College of Music is seeking applications for the position of Assistant Chair of the Professional Music Department. As one of the largest majors at the College, Professional Music is an established program that offers a “design-your-own major/entrepreneurial approach” for students. The Department works closely with students to individualize their undergraduate program of study to be directly aligned with career goals. Further, the Department offers innovative instruction, regularly engages with music industry professionals, sponsors visiting artists and annual events, oversees Berklee Revelation Records (a student-run initiative) and engages in community development, and provides opportunities for experiential learning.
The Assistant Chair will serve as an academic and administrative leader of the Department—working under the direction and supervision of the Chair. The Assistant Chair will be an experienced administrator and teacher with professional experience in music-related career environments. S/he will have evidence of industry engagement, strong leadership qualities, and managerial and organizational skills. S/he will have excellent communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively with a wide variety of constituencies on- and off-campus. The ideal candidate will be forward thinking and possess a commitment to the education of students. This is a twelve-month position with a renewable contract. The start date for the position is September 1, 2024, or earlier depending on availability.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Represent the Professional Music Department as an administrative leader on- and off-campus
Advance the student experience and the work of the Department, Division, and College
Provide intensive advising for students in the Professional Music Major
Contribute to curriculum development, review, and management
Assist with faculty and staff hires, development, mentoring, and evaluation
Assist with the development of class schedules and teaching assignments for faculty
Advance Departmental goals
Assist with the management of Department budgets
Serve on Department, Division, and College committees
Facilitate Department-sponsored guest artists and events
Teach a minimum of one course per fall/spring semester
Maintain professional engagement
Other duties as assigned
QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s degree required (interdisciplinary, arts, or entrepreneurship focus are a plus); Advanced degrees, preferred
A record of administrative experience in higher education—including curriculum development and student advising, preferably in a music context
College or university teaching experience
Experience engaging diverse communities through non-profits, NGOs, for profits, government partnerships etc.
Professional experience in music/music industry environments, preferably in contemporary music
A record of professional engagement and ability to establish and maintain relationships with music industry constituencies, organizations, and academic partners
Strong command of technology to support administrative tasks
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
A commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging
A commitment to health and wellness
SUBMISSION PROCESS
Electronic applications only. Address your cover letter to: Professional Music Department Assistant Chair Search Committee, Attn: Toki Wright, Chair, Professional Music Department, Berklee College of Music. Candidates should submit:
A cover letter of interest outlining how background and qualifications meet position requirements
A curriculum vitae (including contact information for at least three references)
Note: Supporting materials may be requested as the search progresses—and may not be returned.
Incomplete applications will not be considered. This search will remain open for applications until the position is filled.
Berklee College of Music is committed to increasing the diversity of the college community and the curriculum. Candidates who can contribute to that goal are encouraged to apply and to identify their strengths in this area.
This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” employment relationship.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Equal Employment Opportunity at Berklee:
We support an inclusive workplace where everyone excels based on personal merit, qualifications, experience, ability, and job performance. Berklee affirms that inequality is detrimental to our faculty, staff, students, and the communities we serve. Our goal is to make lasting change through our actions. Berklee is committed to providing fair and equitable consideration of all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, ancestry, age, national origin, place of birth, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, genetic information, or status as a member of the armed forces or veteran of the armed forces, or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law.
As part of this commitment, Berklee will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact the Human Resources Team at hroperations@Berklee.edu or call 617-747-2375.
Berklee is committed to increasing the diversity of our institution, community, and the curriculum. Candidates who can contribute to that goal are encouraged to apply and to identify their strengths in this area.
*Currently enrolled Berklee students are not permitted to apply for staff or faculty positions.*