Great job, not for those with active music careers - Department Chair Berklee Employee Review

4.0
Jul 16, 2019
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

This is a fast-paced, international, top-level music college with a rigorous, and demanding program, and some of the best musicians, writers, producers, performers in the world. This job is demanding, with a great deal of responsibility, managing in both directions. The benefits are great, staff are given cost of living increases every year, there's a 403B plan, several types of insurance available, etc. Lots of opportunities for development and travel, lots of support, sabbaticals, etc. Very aware of diversity, if sometimes tone deaf in their responses.

Cons

Lots of responsibility but not alot of power in the institution. The college cuts costs by focusing on scrimping on update and maintenance of facilities, but not by examining the concentration of high paying jobs in the SVP/VP level, all the while undertaking risky endeavors like the "merger" with Boston Conservatory, paying 12M for a not very efficient database system, and expansions into NYC and Spain. Still struggling to attain gender balance and equity in terms of the way women are treated as students and staff. Extremely demanding job in terms of time-management. One-year contract for chairs means a feeling of less job security, though, to be fair, chairs are rarely fired.

Explore other reviews about Berklee

5.0
Apr 15, 2026
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Amazing work culture, understanding managers, and supportive colleagues. I feel truly valued and I can breathe even during peak times.

Cons

So far no cons at all. Everything is wonderful!

1.0
Apr 20, 2026
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

-helping students -talking about music

Cons

-forced to train the ai bot that will replace you -despite being the top performer on your team and being reassured repeatedly your job is secure, you will get laid off with no explanation or respect -c suite prefers to keep their 500k+ salaries and 80k+ bonuses even if it means laying off 80+ employees who only make 55k -CEO led first layoffs in berklee's entire history, no transparency with any managers, no discussion or anything -CEO used money "saved" from layoffs to give other employees bonuses and buy unnecessary property

3
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