Chair of Songwriting

Job Description:

Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts, is actively seeking applicants for the Chair position within its esteemed Professional Writing and Music Technology division.

Berklee stands at the forefront of contemporary music education. A vibrant community pulses with the energy of thousands of students, renowned faculty, and alumni who've shaped the soundscape of the music world who have been recognized with 332 Grammy Awards, 118 Latin Grammy Awards, 31 Emmy Awards, 7 Academy Awards, and 11 Tony Awards.

We established the first college-level songwriting major in 1987. Since then, the institution has remained at the forefront of evolving and innovating the study of songwriting. The Songwriting Department boasts a distinguished faculty whose mission extends beyond teaching songwriting; it’s about nurturing a holistic skill set and teaching students the tools to build their own unique sonic landscapes.

The meticulously designed curriculum caters to the multifaceted nature of songwriting across five distinct focal points. Beyond these concentrations, students delve into various facets of songwriting, exploring creativity, the business side of the craft, utilization of music technologies, emerging trends in the field, industry strategies, and the critical examination of renowned songwriters. In addition to the major, the department also oversees the Music Theater Writing Minor, and offers several summer programs.

The role of Chair within the Songwriting Department at Berklee College of Music embodies a pivotal leadership position accountable to the Dean of PW+MT. This position assumes a multifaceted responsibility of leading a department that thrives on collaboration, innovation, and a deep understanding of artistic expression. The Chair is a songwriter’s advocate; championing the power of song to connect, inspire change, and shape culture. A talent accelerator cultivating the skills and confidence needed for students to thrive as songwriters, producers, and entrepreneurs.

Duties and Responsibilities:

As Chair, you’ll be more than just a leader, you’ll be a catalyst, shaping the creative pulse of our Songwriting Department and inspiring the next generation of musical storytellers. You’ll be weaving together strategic direction with a deep commitment to fostering a culture of fearless exploration and bold ideas.

• Collaborating with the Dean, you’ll shape the department's strategic trajectory, ensuring our curriculum remains at the forefront of innovation and student potential

• Representing the department with a forward-thinking perspective, forging connections both within Berklee and across the global music community.

• Championing ongoing professional development opportunities for staff and faculty

• Engaging in the administrative aspects of the department and college

• Participating in the vibrant life of the department, hosting events, seminars, and welcoming guest artists to ignite inspiration and amplify student experiences.

• Driving the integration of technology and forward-thinking pedagogical approaches, ensuring our students are equipped for the future of music.

• Attending outreach events and liaising with prospective students to increase awareness of the Songwriting Department and educational opportunities

• Advising students as they map out their academic paths and career aspirations, offering a guiding hand and a wealth of industry insights.

• Serving on the Academic Leadership Council, divisional, departmental, and other committees as needed

• Remaining professionally and/or scholarly active

• Ensuring that all activities are conducted with integrity, passion, and a deep respect for the vibrant culture of Berklee.

• Supporting a range of duties as assigned, responding with agility and a commitment to the department’s overall success.

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s degree or equivalent professional experience 

• Comprehensive knowledge of songwriting, music production, and performance within the music industry

• Demonstrated credit history as a non-featured artist in songwriting, producing, or as a music executive in support of songwriters/producers/artists

• Thorough knowledge of the music business, its practices, technologies, and evolving trends

• Proficiency in general business operations, inclusive of administration, project management, strategic planning, talent acquisition, and financial management 

• Working knowledge of higher education structures and systems 

• Willingness to modulate leadership style to complement the the dept and division

• Strong interpersonal, collaboration, and verbal/writing communication skills

• Extremely organized with demonstrated ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities/projects and meet deadlines

• Demonstrated commitment to fostering and to supporting a diverse workplace with a multicultural, multinational faculty and student body

This is a 12-month administrative position. Initial appointment is for three years.

SUBMISSION PROCESS: Electronic applications only. Please submit the following materials in PDF or Word format at berklee.edu/jobs. All application materials can be combined as one file and uploaded to the Resume/Cover letter application section.

Candidates should submit:

• Letter of Application

• Current resume or CV

• Names and contact information for at least three (3) references

• Links to websites or online resources with representative samples of your work

APPLICATION REVIEW and DEADLINE

1) Incomplete applications will not be considered.

2) The position will remain open for applications until filled.

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 [email protected] or call 617-747-2375.

*Currently enrolled Berklee students are not permitted to apply for staff or faculty positions.*