Interim CEO named for Elgin Symphony Orchestra
The Elgin Symphony Orchestra is entering its next phase of leadership with the early exit of current CEO Dale Lonis. David Bearden, a longtime supporter of the orchestra, was named interim CEO Monday.
Bearden served on the ESO board of directors from 1996 to 2000 and joined again last year. His expertise is in management with more than 20 years experience at Panasonic Corp. in Elgin, followed by his position as President of Rex Stores Inc., in Dayton, Ohio, for the five years preceding his 2010 retirement.
Jerry Cain, chairman of the ESO board and president of Judson University, said Lonis will remain connected to the ESO as a consultant to help guide the symphony through the selection of a new music director to replace Robert Hanson, who resigned in July 2011.
Lonis’ contract originally was to end in June 2013, but he resigned early to teach and conduct. Bearden will take over Lonis’ responsibilities with the management of the orchestra, including budgets and personnel.
Former Mayor Ed Schock will be Bearden’s first hire and the third division of Lonis’ former duties — he will focus on public relations and fundraising.
Cain said there isn’t a timeline for the latest arrangement, but the search for the music director is taking top priority.
“Once we get the music director hired we’ll turn around and put our energies into finding a CEO,” Cain said.
Schock said he will meet Friday with Bearden and Bert Crossland, who will take over Cain’s position as chairman of the ESP board when his term ends this summer. His goals are to bring back supporters who have become estranged from the orchestra in recent years and also reach out to new people.
“We have to cast a wider net and bring other people into a little more active role,” Schock said.
Schock said his position is part time and will last about six months before both sides can re-examine next steps. Schock has been a subscriber to the ESO for about 30 years and takes pride in Elgin’s claim to one of the best symphony orchestras in the state.
Bearden could not be reached for comment.
Cain, who will transition into a two-year past-chair position this summer, said Bearden’s expertise in management makes him a good fit for the symphony’s transition period.
“It’s one more step in strengthening our symphony and expanding its base in the Fox River community,” Cain said.