Chief Executive Officer

ABOUT CLASSICAL KING

Classical KING (98.1 FM, three streaming channels) serves the Pacific Northwest as a catalyst for the entire regional arts community. The station is the primary resource for attracting and developing new audiences for classical music in the Pacific Northwest and beyond with a profound reach :

• 250,000 weekly radio listeners
• Ranks in the top 5 most popular radio stations in the Seattle / Tacoma market
• 100,000 regularly stream Classical KING
• 50+ broadcasts of local concerts from performing partners each year
• 25+ live studio performances annually
• 98% locally created content

The station is an independent nonprofit, and its $5.3 million budget is entirely supported by listeners and sponsors. We are co‑located with Seattle Opera at Seattle Center, the performing arts district in Seattle. With the largest reach, the most diverse audience, and the fewest barriers, Classical KING is a singular community asset.

The current CEO Dr. Brenda Barnes will retire after her successor is hired and a smooth transition is completed.

THE OPPORTUNITY

Classical KING seeks a dynamic individual to become the next Chief Executive Officer. The successful candidate will have a record of leadership in managing staff (currently a staff of 26), working with governing or advisory boards of directors, a firm grasp of today’s media landscape and the regulatory framework for public radio, knowledge of classical music, demonstrated success in fundraising, budget management. The CEO is a strategic and collaborative leader who will maximize the talents of staff, board and supporters in the fulfillment of Classical KING’s mission to grow, diversify, and enrich the love of classical music in the Puget Sound Region and beyond. The individual will work on‑site in Seattle.

MAJOR OBJECTIVES

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

The salary range for this position is $206,000‑$284,000 and commensurate with experience. The CEO will be based in Seattle at the Classical KING offices. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance; employer‑paid life and disability insurance; 401(k) program with employer matching, paid time off including holidays, sick days, and vacation.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Candidates are invited to apply in confidence by end of day, December 12, 2025, by emailing one PDF document not to exceed 10 pages that includes a cover letter, resume and list of three references to :

Search Committee, Classical KING Board of Directors at HR@king.org

Every candidate for the CEO position must be available on Monday, January 12, 2026, in Seattle for a personal interview with the search committee and board members. The committee has set aside that day for interviews with the finalists. There are no exceptions.

Classical KING is governed by a 15-member board composed of business, media, education, and community leaders. The CEO is an ex officio member of the board and reports to the Board President.

MISSION, VISION, AND VALUES

Our Mission

Classical KING will actively grow, diversify, and enrich the love of classical music in our community.

Our Vision

Expand our diverse community of listeners, performers, and supporters who understand and benefit from the powerful impact of classical music and the arts in our region.

Our Values

Classical KING is an equal opportunity employer.

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