In 1991, Beadle participated in the American Symphony Orchestra League's Orchestra Management Fellowship program. He served as the executive director of the Erie Philharmonic from 1991 to 1993, general manager of the Atlanta Symphony from 1994 to 1995, and general manager of the Oregon Symphony from 1996 to 1999.

Beadle has also had a 20-year professional career as a double bassist. He has performed with the Berkshire Music Center Orchestra, the Boston Symphony and Pops Orchestras, and the Boston Ballet Orchestra. Beadle graduated in 1974 from Boston University with a Bachelor of Arts in Music. He also attended the New England Conservatory of Music.

In a press release, the orchestra said that Beadle will help smooth the transition of the orchestra's new music director, Tokyo-born Junichi Hirokami, whose tenure begins June 1.

Board chairman Fordham E. Huffman said, "We are thrilled that Tony Beadle will be the next executive director of the Columbus Symphony Orchestra. Tony brings a wide range of experiences to the post, along with extensive contacts throughout the industry. I believe that he will accelerate our progress toward sustainable excellence. "