AUSTIN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA ANNOUNCES JUSTUS ZIMMERMAN AS 
NEW CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AUSTIN, TX

The Austin Symphony Orchestra (ASO) is thrilled to announce the appointment of its new Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director, Justus Zimmerman, effective February 1, 2025. Zimmerman brings a wealth of experience in nonprofit management and a visionary approach to arts leadership that has driven transformative growth in his previous roles.

Zimmerman joins ASO following a remarkable tenure as Executive Director of the South Bend Symphony Orchestra, where his innovative leadership produced record-breaking ticket sales, donor engagement and community collaborations. With a deep passion for the performing arts and a commitment to community building, Zimmerman’s arrival signals an exciting new chapter for the ASO.

Justus had this to say about his new appointment, “I am honored to join the Austin Symphony Orchestra and build upon the powerful legacy established by Music Director Peter Bay and our extraordinary musicians, staff, and board. Together, we will continue to elevate ASO’s leadership in Austin’s vibrant cultural landscape and as part of the city’s renowned musical heritage.”

President of the Board of Trustees, Linda van Bavel, expressed her enthusiasm for the appointment by saying, “I’d like to welcome Justus Zimmerman to Austin. I’m excited to collaborate with our exceptional orchestra and leverage the creative potential of our dynamic city under Justus’s visionary and energetic leadership.”

During his time in South Bend, Zimmerman’s achievements included building a dynamic marketing department that increased ticket sales by over 70% from pre-pandemic levels and reimagining donor relations to boost contributed income by nearly 90%. His reinvestment in community collaborations expanded the symphony’s reach, while his inclusive approach to musician relations fostered artistic excellence and satisfaction. Zimmerman also served as Marketing Director for the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, where he pioneered digital-first marketing strategies that significantly increased revenue.

“I am thrilled the ASO will be led to greater heights by the energetic and innovative initiatives of Justus Zimmerman.  He is the best person to serve our ASO community, and I look forward to partnering with him,” shared ASO Music Director and Conductor Peter Bay.

A passionate advocate for the arts, Zimmerman has collaborated with diverse organizations to strengthen community ties and inspire the next generation of music lovers. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he is a dedicated family man, avid climber and environmental enthusiast. Zimmerman holds a bachelor’s degree from Gordon College in Wenham, Massachusetts.

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