"We have had operations managers, but we needed someone to oversee the day-to-day operations of the orchestra as well as help us lead our education initiatives and artistic planning," said executive director Ryan Fleur in a statement.

"Alberto has managed orchestras with 80 musicians and budgets of more than $8 million," Fleur added. "He can negotiate artist contracts, set up a concert hall, and manage a staff. He is just what a growing orchestra like the Memphis Symphony needs."

The MSO has 35 full-time musicians and an annual budget of $4 million.