Director of Choral and Music Programs 

Reports To:

Provost / Vice President for Academic Affairs 

Location:

Briar Cliff University, Sioux City IA 

Position Type:

Full-time, 9-month faculty contract 

Salary:

Commensurate with experience and qualifications, with competitive benefits package. 

Job Summary:

Briar Cliff University of Iowa, an institution committed to higher education within a liberal arts and Catholic perspective, invites seeks a dynamic and visionary Director of Choral and Music Programs. The Director will provide artistic, academic, and administrative leadership for all aspects of the university's music offerings, fostering a vibrant and enriching environment for students, faculty, and the wider community. This role requires a blend of artistic excellence, strong administrative skills, and a commitment to recruiting and retaining talented music students. 

Key Responsibilities:

I. Program Leadership & Development: 

• Develop, articulate, and implement a strategic vision for the growth and enhancement of all music programs and activities 
• Oversee curriculum development and review, ensuring academic rigor, relevance, and alignment with university goals and accreditation standards. 
• Foster an inclusive and diverse musical environment that supports various genres, styles, and cultural expressions. 
• Identify and pursue opportunities for program expansion, new initiatives, and interdisciplinary collaborations within the university and beyond. 
• Lead efforts in program assessment and continuous improvement, utilizing data to inform decisions. 

II. Student Recruitment & Retention: 

• Develop and implement effective recruitment strategies to attract high-caliber music students  
• Collaborate with the Admissions office on recruitment events and scholarship initiatives. 
• Implement strategies for student retention, academic success, and career preparation. 
• Oversee the advising students and ensure their progress toward degree completion. 

III. Faculty and Staff Management: 

• Recruit, mentor, supervise, and evaluate adjunct music faculty and staff, promoting a culture of excellence in teaching, performance, scholarship, and service. 
• Facilitate faculty development opportunities, including professional growth, research, and creative activities. 
• Manage faculty workload assignments and ensure equitable distribution of responsibilities. 
• Foster a collaborative and supportive working environment for all music personnel. 

IV. Administration & Operations: 

• Manage the music program budget, including allocation of resources, monitoring expenditures, and seeking external funding opportunities (grants, donations). 
• Oversee the scheduling of courses, rehearsals, performances, and facilities. 
• Ensure proper maintenance and inventory of musical instruments, equipment, and facilities. 
• Maintain accurate records and reports related to program activities, enrollment, and outcomes. 
• Serve as the primary liaison for music programs with other university departments, external organizations, and professional associations. 
• Ensure compliance with all university policies, procedures, and relevant accreditation standards  

V. Artistic & Community Engagement: 

• Direct Choral Activities including the flagship ensemble, Cliff Singers; potential to direct community-based ensembles. 
• Actively promote and champion the music programs within the university community and to the public 
• Oversee the planning and execution of concerts, recitals, and other public music events. 
• Cultivate relationships with K-12 music educators, community music organizations, and professional musicians. 
• Represent the university's music programs at local, regional, and national events. 
• Potentially lead or contribute to a musical ensemble or teach courses, depending on expertise and program needs. 

 

Qualifications: 

Required: 

• Doctorate in Music (Conducting or Music Education) from an accredited institutionpreferred, ABD will be considerd. 
• Significant experience (typically 5+ years) in secondary (or post-secondary) education music administration, with demonstrated leadership responsibilities. 
• Proven record of excellence in teaching and/or artistic performance/scholarship at the university level. 
• Strong administrative and organizational skills, including budget management, strategic planning, and personnel supervision. 
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and public relations skills. 
• Demonstrated ability to recruit and retain music students. 
• Commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within music programs. 

Preferred: 

• Demonstrated success in fundraising and grant writing. 
• Experience with music technology and its application in education and performance. 
• Knowledge of and appreciation for the unique cultural landscape of Iowa. 

Application Process: 

Interested candidates should submit the following materials: 

• A letter of application addressing qualifications and interest in the position. 
• Curriculum Vitae. 
• Video footage of directing a rehearsal or performance may be requested at a later date. 
• Contact information for three professional references. 

 

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. For full consideration, please apply by July 3, 2025 

Perched on a scenic hilltop in Sioux City, Iowa, Briar Cliff University is a liberal arts institution offering baccalaureate to doctoral degree programs and is home to more than 1100 students. Since 1930, the University has educated students in the Franciscan tradition of service, caring, and openness to all. Grounded in faith and pursuit of higher learning, the liberal arts education from Briar Cliff shapes more than just students' resumes - it shapes their character.  

We invite applications for this position.