Mitchell Krieger has been named executive director of the Savannah Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorus, taking the reins from interim Executive Director and Board member Samir Nicocevic.  Krieger, appointed following an extensive national search, will join the Philharmonic on Aug. 15. He comes to the Hostess City from the Victoria Symphony in British Columbia.

“The Savannah Philharmonic is excited to secure an executive director as experienced and accomplished as Mitchell Krieger. His goals and direction align with our plan to build the Philharmonic and position the organization to serve Savannah for many years to come,” Board Chairman Austin Hill said.

Krieger’s accomplishments in Victoria, British Columbia, include taking the symphony to the next level by leading the creation of a strong strategic plan and mission statement development. He achieved surpluses in every year of his tenure, increasing development revenue and growing individual giving from $150,000 in 2009 to over $1 million in 2014-15. Krieger revamped the Victoria Symphony’s marketing programs, and helped to create and curate four citywide collaborative projects, leading to strong community recognition and support.

Krieger, who also served as a chorusmaster with the Cleveland Opera and an assistant chorusmaster and assistant conductor with the New York City Opera, said he’s delighted to assume his post at the helm of the Savannah Philharmonic.

“I’m honored the board of directors and administrators selected me to lead such a reputable and innovative organization,” Krieger said. “The Savannah Philharmonic has achieved so much in just a few years, and the large following and undeniable support these talented musicians enjoy is amazing. I’m looking forward to continuing the tradition of excellent work they’re known over the next seasons.”

Krieger earned a Bachelor of Music degree from the Manhattan School of Music and a Master of Fine Arts degree from the California Institute of the Arts. He also participated in the Executive Program for Nonprofit Leaders in the Arts, coordinated by Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business.

The board of directors expressed gratitude to Interim Executive Director Samir Nicocevic, who helped facilitate a smooth transition in the organization’s top administrative position.