Eric Marshall named Orchestra Iowa CEO

CEDAR RAPIDS — Eric Marshall, executive director of the Baton Rouge Symphony in Louisiana, will join Orchestra Iowa on July 1 as its new chief executive officer.

Marshall brings more than 15 years of orchestra leadership experience to Orchestra Iowa. His July 1 start date will coincide with the beginning of the orchestra’s fiscal year, leading up to the 2024-25 season.

“After an extensive national search, I’m confident we have found the best candidate to lead Orchestra Iowa forward,” Lisa Rhatigan, Orchestra Iowa’s board chair, said in a news release announcing the hire.

“I’m looking forward to working with a partner like Eric going into next season,” added Tim Hankewich, Orchestra Iowa’s music director. “He shared some great ideas during our interview process, and the time we spent together gave me great confidence in him.”

Linda Barnes will remain in her interim executive director position with the orchestra through July 31, to help with the transition. On Aug. 1, she will rejoin the organization’s board in her former role as vice chair. Jeff Collier left the orchestra’s CEO post Aug. 31, 2023, after eight years.

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