Houston Symphony Executive and Leadership Team

Gary Ginstling, the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer, Margaret Alkek Williams Chair at Houston Symphony, directs the overarching strategic vision for this historic performing arts organization. Ginstling manages the $35.2 million annual operating budget while overseeing the professional ensemble of 88 musicians. By aligning artistic programming with long-term institutional goals, the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer, Margaret Alkek Williams Chair ensures the orchestra maintains its status as a premier cultural institution in the United States. Gary Ginstling cultivates relationships with donors and stakeholders to secure the financial future of the ensemble. Through rigorous administrative oversight, the executive drives growth across all concert, touring, and recording activities. This leadership role requires constant coordination with the Board to expand the reach of the orchestra within the Greater Houston area and beyond, ultimately solidifying the reputation of the organization on the global stage.

Elizabeth Condic, the Chief Financial Officer at Houston Symphony, manages the fiscal health and economic sustainability of this major performing arts entity. Condic oversees all accounting, financial reporting, and budgetary planning for the 170 annual concerts and extensive community programs. By implementing robust financial controls, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the efficient allocation of resources across the ensemble and administrative departments. Elizabeth Condic monitors revenue streams from ticket sales, recording royalties, and philanthropic contributions to support the $35.2 million operating budget. This role involves detailed analysis of long-term financial trends to guide the strategic decisions of the executive team. Through precise management of assets and liabilities, the Chief Financial Officer maintains the fiscal integrity required for the orchestra to continue its century-long tradition of excellence. Condic provides the necessary data-driven insights to support the expansion of community-based performances throughout the region.

Victoria Dominguez, the Chief Operating Officer at Houston Symphony, manages the complex logistics and daily operations of the orchestra. Dominguez oversees the production requirements for nearly 170 concerts and over 1,000 community-based performances annually. By coordinating the schedules of 88 professional musicians and the four Community-Embedded Musicians, the Chief Operating Officer ensures seamless execution of all artistic activities. Victoria Dominguez directs the operational infrastructure, including venue management, touring logistics, and technical support for recording sessions. This role requires constant interaction with the artistic and administrative teams to maintain high standards of performance quality. Through efficient process management, the Chief Operating Officer supports the growth of the organization and the successful delivery of educational programs in schools and hospitals. Dominguez optimizes internal workflows to ensure that the operational capacity of the orchestra matches the ambitious artistic vision of the institution.

Janet Clark, the Board President at Houston Symphony, leads the governance and strategic oversight of the organization. Clark directs the Board of Trustees in setting the long-term mission and policy framework for the orchestra. By facilitating communication between the Board and the executive leadership, the Board President ensures alignment on major institutional goals, including the $35.2 million budget and artistic expansion. Janet Clark oversees the recruitment and engagement of board members to support the development and community outreach efforts of the ensemble. This leadership role involves chairing meetings and guiding the strategic direction of the organization to ensure its continued success in the performing arts sector. Through dedicated governance, the Board President protects the legacy of the orchestra while fostering innovation. Clark provides the necessary oversight to maintain the high standards of the institution, ensuring that the organization remains a cornerstone of the cultural life in the region.

James Lee, the President, Symphony Endowment (Houston) at Houston Symphony, manages the long-term financial security and investment strategy of the organization. Lee directs the growth and preservation of the endowment funds, which provide critical support for the annual operating budget and special projects. By overseeing investment policies, the President, Symphony Endowment (Houston) ensures that the financial resources of the orchestra remain stable and productive. James Lee collaborates with the Board and financial advisors to align endowment performance with the strategic needs of the ensemble. This leadership role involves cultivating relationships with major donors to increase the capital base of the organization. Through prudent financial management, the President, Symphony Endowment (Houston) secures the future of the orchestra, allowing for continued investment in artistic excellence and community programs. Lee provides the essential financial foundation that enables the institution to thrive for another century.

Barbara McCelvey, the President-Elect & Society Board of Trustees Committee Chair, Development Executive at Houston Symphony, directs the fundraising strategy and donor relations for the organization. McCelvey oversees the development department to ensure consistent revenue growth through individual giving, corporate sponsorships, and foundation grants. By leading the Board of Trustees committees, the President-Elect & Society Board of Trustees Committee Chair, Development Executive fosters a culture of philanthropy that supports the 170 annual concerts and community outreach. Barbara McCelvey coordinates with the executive team to align development goals with the artistic mission of the orchestra. This leadership role involves identifying new funding opportunities and strengthening existing donor partnerships to sustain the $35.2 million operating budget. Through strategic development initiatives, the President-Elect & Society Board of Trustees Committee Chair, Development Executive ensures the financial viability of the ensemble, enabling the continued delivery of world-class performances to the community.

Maureen Higdon, the Executive Board Member and President of League at Houston Symphony, directs the volunteer and community engagement efforts of the organization. Higdon oversees the activities of the Symphony League, which provides essential support for educational programs and fundraising events. By mobilizing volunteers, the Executive Board Member and President of League ensures that the orchestra maintains a strong presence in schools, community centers, and hospitals. Maureen Higdon collaborates with the executive team to integrate volunteer initiatives into the broader strategic plan of the institution. This leadership role involves fostering a sense of community ownership and pride in the orchestra. Through effective management of the League, the Executive Board Member and President of League drives participation in community-based performances that reach nearly 200,000 people annually. Higdon ensures that the volunteer efforts of the organization directly contribute to the mission of making music accessible to all.

Leslie Nossaman, the President, Symphony League (Houston) at Houston Symphony, leads the volunteer organization dedicated to supporting the mission of the orchestra. Nossaman directs the planning and execution of community events, educational outreach, and fundraising activities that supplement the core operations of the ensemble. By coordinating the efforts of the League members, the President, Symphony League (Houston) ensures that the orchestra remains deeply connected to the local community. Leslie Nossaman works closely with the executive leadership to align volunteer projects with the strategic goals of the institution. This leadership role involves managing the logistics of community-based performances and special events that engage thousands of people annually. Through dedicated service, the President, Symphony League (Houston) enhances the public impact of the orchestra and fosters a supportive environment for the musicians. Nossaman ensures that the volunteer base remains a vital asset in the ongoing success of the organization.

Rolanda Gregory, the Chief Marketing Officer at Houston Symphony, architects the brand strategy and audience engagement initiatives for this premier orchestra. Gregory directs all promotional campaigns, digital outreach, and public relations efforts to maximize attendance for the 170 annual concerts. By leveraging data analytics, the Chief Marketing Officer identifies new market segments to expand the reach of the organization across the Greater Houston area. Rolanda Gregory oversees the communication strategy for recording releases and community-embedded performances, ensuring consistent messaging across all platforms. This leadership role involves close collaboration with the artistic team to highlight the unique value of the ensemble to diverse audiences. Through innovative marketing tactics, the Chief Marketing Officer drives ticket revenue and strengthens the public profile of the orchestra. Gregory ensures that the mission of the organization resonates with both long-time patrons and new listeners, fostering a sustainable and growing community of supporters.