The Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra (MSO) announced that Susan Loris has been promoted from vice president of marketing and communications to executive vice president and general manager, a new position for the organization. In her new role, Loris will oversee the MSO’s overall operations, coordinating organization-wide plans and strategic initiatives, while also continuing to lead the MSO’s marketing, public relations and education departments.
“Susan is widely-recognized by our administrative team, our musicians and our partners as a trusted leader, critical thinker and respected manager,” said Mark Niehaus, president and executive director of the MSO. “Susan has a wealth of experience in arts administration, orchestra management and marketing and sales, and we will benefit from her ongoing leadership as the MSO continues to expand and reach new audiences.”
Loris joined the MSO in 2007 as director of public affairs and was quickly promoted to vice president of marketing and communications. Loris has led countless marketing, communications and education initiatives that have raised the profile of the MSO and contributed to substantial year-over-year increases in attendance, including a 32 percent increase in new patrons from the 2014-15 to 2015-16 season, as well as double-digit percent increases in single ticket sales. In January 2016, the MSO launched a new website under Loris’s leadership that features added ticketing and donation functionality, and more streamlined, user-friendly experience for desktop, tablet and mobile users. Since the upgrade, there has been a 24 percent increase in revenue brought in through the website and a 38 percent increase in total tickets sold online
In her new role, Loris will continue to oversee the MSO’s education programs, which are celebrated as a national model in arts education. Under Loris’ leadership, the Arts in Community Education (ACE), Family Series and Concerts for Schools programs have grown to serve more than 30,000 children each year from approximately 250 schools in Southeastern Wisconsin and Northern Illinois.
“In addition to stimulating the local economy and contributing to the vibrant arts scene in Milwaukee, the MSO fosters music appreciation among all ages and walks of life, which I am deeply passionate about. I’m thrilled to step into this new leadership role and look forward to working with our talented team to bring the MSO’s diverse performance and education offerings to even more people throughout the region,” said Loris.
Loris previously held marketing and communications positions at both the Milwaukee Ballet and the Florentine Opera Company. She earned her bachelor’s degree in music and government at Lawrence University.
Company:
Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra
