SLSO names Rosenzweig chief financial officer

ST. LOUIS, Mo. – The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra (SLSO) announced the appointment of Steven Rosenzweig, CPA, as its chief financial officer on Thursday.

Rosenzweig succeeds James Garrone, who retires in early 2019 after 15 years with the SLSO.

“We congratulate Jim on his retirement and thank him for his impressive years of service,” Marie-Hélène Bernard, SLSO president and CEO said. “A trusted colleague, Jim’s expertise, leadership and attention to detail steadily guided the SLSO to reach its current institutional health and stability.”

Steven Rosenzweig/SLSO
Rosenzweig brings more than 20 years of senior strategic financial management experience in both the nonprofit and for-profit fields to the SLSO. He previously served as the CFO and chief operating officer of the Jewish Community Center (JCC) in St. Louis, where he oversaw the nonprofit’s financial, operational and capital portfolios.

During his time at JCC, Rosenzweig spearheaded the issuance of $45 million of tax-exempt debt as was instrumental in helping the JCC create and execute its financial turnaround. He was also involved in two strategic plans including a capital campaign and construction of new facilities with JCC.

“Steven brings outstanding strategic financial, human resources, technology and facilities management expertise and will be an important partner to me and my executive team as we continue to position the SLSO on a successful trajectory,” Bernard said. “Everyone involved in the selection process was deeply impressed with his experience and grasp of the SLSO’s portfolio, in addition to his strong interpersonal skills and true connection to our mission.”

Since 2015, Rosenzweig has served as a chief financial officer of a large food service management company and a WiFi security camera company. He also worked as a controller at several for-profit companies in Cleveland and Boston.

“I am confident that he will be a great partner as the SLSO enters an exciting era and navigates complex projects ahead,” Bernard said.

Rosenzweig is an adjunct professor at Washington University Brown School of Social Work, where he teaches financial concepts to graduate students. He also volunteers his expertise as a member of the finance committees of Washington University Hillel and the St. Louis Children’s Choirs. Rosenzweig and his wife, Avi, are parents to three children.

For the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018, the SLSO reported its second year in a row of operating surplus. Total operating revenue was $30.9 million, while operating expenses totaled $30.4 million, generating an operating surplus of $490,000.

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