How long have you worked in the industry?
I formerly trained as an opera singer, but my career in arts administration started over 25 years ago in publicity for classical musicians at Opus3 Artists. For a couple seasons I worked in marketing for the National Basketball Association (NBA), followed by a position in the artistic department for the Metropolitan Opera, as well as in artistic services for Opera America.
I also managed bookings and operations for Merkin Concert Hall at the Kaufman Music Center and Florence Gould Hall at the French Institute. I transitioned to technology for the arts at Jacobson Consulting Applications, which specializes in solutions for the non-profit sector including ticketing, CRM, venue management, and database management. I had the opportunity to work with some of the most iconic cultural organizations in North America including Carnegie Hall, the Toronto International Film Festival, the Guggenheim Museum, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
What are you most excited or passionate about? What are the goals you most want to accomplish in your work?
Experiencing performances or art with other people enriches our lives in a way that cannot be replicated. I find that the staff at an arts organization is often passionate about the mission and services they provide. I want to bring innovative solutions and ideas that help the staff achieve their mission and contribute to sharing the arts.
How and why did you end up working in the events industry, and what attracted you to work in this business?
I enjoy working with a team of people towards a common goal like a performance or an event. In show business, things rarely go according to plan, so I’ve had to improvise and think on my feet. And at the end of the night, when everyone has gone home, it feels like such an accomplishment. I like being able to provide our clients with the tools to anticipate problems and pivot quickly.
What is a project you’re most proud of?
I was the founder and executive director of Manhattan Opera Theatre. We produced several shows including two operas I commissioned, which continue to be performed across the country.
What do you like most about working for Ungerboeck?
I like that we listen to our clients and work in partnership with them to develop innovative solutions that can be shared throughout the industry. It allows Ungerboeck to be a resource for ideas and a source of growth.