Maria Catalina Prieto
Orchestra CEO
Medellin
Summary
Visionary Orchestra Executive with 14+ Years of Experience
A strategic and passionate leader in the orchestral and cultural sectors, with a proven track record in elevating orchestral institutions to new heights of artistic excellence, financial sustainability, and community engagement. Known for innovative programming, cross-sector partnerships, and international collaborations. Fluent in English, Spanish, and French. Recent achievements include leading the Medellin Philharmonic Orchestra to its first international tour and securing major awards like the Latin Grammy. Ready to lead the Houston Symphony into its next chapter of growth and artistic distinction.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
CEO - Executive Director
Orquesta Filarmónica De Medellin
05.2021 - Current
- Led transformational fundraising initiatives that significantly increased the orchestra’s financial stability. Secured multi-year commitments from major donors, corporations, and foundations, resulting in a 30% growth in annual fundraising revenue.
- Collaborated closely with the board, providing strategic insights and actionable recommendations that guided the organization through a significant period of change. Strengthened board relationships, leading to greater involvement in fundraising and strategic planning.
- Turned around the organization during challenging times, navigating economic uncertainty and external pressures by implementing a robust financial management strategy. Achieved operational efficiencies and maintained a balanced budget, ensuring the orchestra’s sustainability without compromising artistic quality.
- Expanded the orchestra’s community presence through targeted outreach programs, resulting in a 40% increase in audience attendance and higher engagement from underserved communities.
Deputy Director - Programmming
Orquesta Filarmónica De Medellin
09.2017 - 05.2021
- Spearheaded innovative programming that attracted new audiences and diversified revenue streams, contributing to the orchestra’s financial resilience. This included introducing popular open-air concerts as well as the social programs for people with disabilities, excombatants and victims, mental health, etc that became new sources of revenue and brought international recognition and increased audiences attendance.
- Played a key role in securing major sponsorships and grants to fund the orchestra’s first international tour, showcasing the organization on a global stage and building valuable international partnerships.
Deputy Director - Programming and COO
Orquesta Filarmónica De Bogota
01.2016 - 02.2018
- Directed a $12.5 million budget across multiple operational activities, ensuring the financial health and programmatic success of the orchestra.
- Led a multidisciplinary team of 600 members, fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration.
- Managed all aspects of the Missional Division, including education, youth orchestras, and concert production, ensuring alignment with strategic goals.
Education
Masters in Arts Management - Arts Management
Universidad De Barcelona
Barcelona, Colombia 05.2001 -
Postgraduate Diploma - Cultural Policies
Universidad De Barcelina
B 05.2001 -
Bachelor of Arts - Music
Universidad De Los Andes
Bogotá, Colombia 05.2001 -
Skills
Additional Experiences
Advisor to the Executive Director, Medellín Philharmonic Orchestra
General Manager, America Cantat Festival
Cultural Affairs Specialist, US Embassy Bogota
Project Manager - Ministry of Culture
Languages
Spanish
Native language
English
Proficient
C2
French
Advanced
C1
Italian
Upper intermediate
B2
Accomplishments
Global Arts Management Fellow - Devos Institute- Michael Kaiser Brett Egan. Washington DC, 2022-2024.
International Fellow – International Mentoring Program, British Council and Association of British Orchestras, UK, 2022
Innovation Award – Classical Next, Germany, 2022
Latin Grammy Award – Best Children Album, Las Vegas, 2021
Meritorious Honor Award– United States Department of State, Bogotá, 2012
Timeline
CEO - Executive Director
Orquesta Filarmónica De Medellin
05.2021 - Current
Deputy Director - Programmming
Orquesta Filarmónica De Medellin
09.2017 - 05.2021
Deputy Director - Programming and COO
Orquesta Filarmónica De Bogota
01.2016 - 02.2018
Masters in Arts Management - Arts Management
Universidad De Barcelona
05.2001 -
Postgraduate Diploma - Cultural Policies
Universidad De Barcelina
05.2001 -
Bachelor of Arts - Music
Universidad De Los Andes
05.2001 -
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