Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra CEO James Johnson plans to exit his role next month, the nonprofit’s board announced Tuesday.
Johnson’s departure from the largest performing arts organization in central Indiana will coincide with the conclusion of the ISO’s classical season on June 20.
The Seattle native is choosing to resign after eight years of leading the ISO, according to Christina Bodurow of the board’s executive committee.
“For the ISO’s part, we are grateful for his willingness to remain engaged and help with the transition,” Bodurow wrote in an email to IBJ. “James even committed to lending support and assistance after his formal departure in June, an offer we readily accepted to enable continuity.”
Attempts to reach Johnson were unsuccessful.
The board appointed Jonathan Martin, former CEO of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra as the organization’s interim chief operating officer. A national search for Johnson’s successor is planned.
Johnson navigated two notable labor challenges during his tenure.
In September 2020, the Indiana Symphony Society Inc. — the nonprofit parent organization of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra — reached a one-year contract agreement with musicians following months of tension between the two parties related to canceled performances because of the pandemic.
In December 2025, the two parties came to terms on a three-year labor agreement that included increased salaries for the 78 members of the musicians’ bargaining unit. The deal was announced one day before the opening of popular concert series “AES Indiana Yuletide Celebration.”
The ISO’s CEO oversees the musicians as well as 50 administrative staff members and a $26 million operating budget.
“It has been a privilege and an honor to serve the ISO,” Johnson said in a written statement. “I am proud of what we have accomplished together — our musicians, conductors, staff, board, donors, ISO Foundation, and community partners. I leave with great confidence in the Symphony’s continued success and enduring mission.”
The symphony hired Jun Märkl as music director in 2024. The board’s announcement of Johnson’s departure highlighted community partnerships established with the IU Jacobs School of Music, Indianapolis Ballet, Butler Arts & Events, GangGang, Michigan’s Sphinx Organization and Hoosier Art Salon.
In December 2024, the symphony announced plans to renovate Hilbert Circle Theatre, the organization’s longtime performance venue on Monument Circle. Plans include a new rooftop event space and outdoor terrace overlooking the Circle, a revamp of lounge areas and a new covered walkway and entryway along the Scioto Street alley.
“Through a tireless work ethic, a commitment to embracing new initiatives and nurturing community partnerships, and a deep belief in the power of music, James led us through the most comprehensive strategic planning effort in the organization’s history and set the tone for artistic excellence, with the ISO sounding better now than at any time in memory,” board chair Eric Sutphin said in a written statement. “We are profoundly grateful for James’ contributions.”
Johnson, 62, graduated from Southern Methodist University in Dallas.
Before his time in Indianapolis, Johnson served as CEO of the Omaha Symphony in Nebraska for seven years following a 10-year stint as CEO of the New York Pops in New York City.
At the ISO, Johnson succeeded Gary Ginstling, who spent four years in the CEO role before leaving to become executive director of the National Symphony Orchestra in Washington, D.C.
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