The Savannah Philharmonic is pleased to announce Jonathan Martin as Interim Chief Executive Officer starting May 4th following the departure of Dr. Amy Williams, who accepted a new position as President and CEO of the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra beginning in late May.

Martin is a nationally recognized arts executive with decades of experience leading some of the most prestigious performing arts organizations in the United States. Most recently, he served as President and CEO of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra from 2017-2025. Under his leadership, the organization grew into one of the country's most respected and financially robust cultural institutions. 

During his tenure, Martin led a transformative strategic plan that expanded community-driven programming and audience engagement. He spearheaded a $100 million endowment campaign and a $160 million capital campaign to replace Riverbend Music Center with a new 20,000-seat outdoor venue scheduled to open in 2027, while also overseeing construction of a $37 million indoor venue. He led a global music director search that resulted in the appointment of Cristian Mǎcelaru in 2024 and implemented a comprehensive board and governance redesign.

Prior to his time in Cincinnati, Martin served as President & CEO of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra (2012–2017), where he launched a $100 million major gift campaign and created a multidisciplinary arts festival featuring collaborations with leading cultural partners and artists, including Pharrell Williams and St. Vincent.

Earlier in his career, Martin spent nine years as General Manager of The Cleveland Orchestra, overseeing orchestral operations, international tours, Severance Hall and Blossom Music Center, and launched the orchestra’s residency program in Miami. He began his career with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, where he held five roles over 14 years under Music Director Robert Shaw.

A native of Atlanta, Martin holds a Bachelor of Music degree from Georgia State University. He co-founded Equity Arc, helped create the orchestra licensing association Orchestra Music Licensing Organization, and is a member of the Recording Academy and the League of American Orchestras. In 2025, Musical America named him one of the top 30 professionals in the U.S. classical music field.

For more information about the Savannah Philharmonic, please visit www.savannahphilharmonic.org.