Mary Deissler

Mary Deissler, Co-Executive Director

A strong believer in arts access for all and in building community through the shared music experience, Mary Deissler has nearly 35 years of broad experience across performing arts and international nonprofits.

Deissler served as CEO of the Handel and Haydn Society for nearly 25 years. There she worked strategically to eliminate an accumulated debt and establish cash reserves and budgetary stability.

Most recently, Deissler served as President and CEO of the Charlotte Symphony, where she eliminated a $1.9m debt, achieved record surpluses in each of three years, and expanded the organization’s community partnerships and educational outreach.

Other posts have included a major gifts and trusts directorship with Save the Children in London, Vice President of Development with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and a Chief Advancement Officer role with Artis–Naples, southwest Florida’s largest cultural institution.

Deissler earned a bachelor’s degree at the University of Massachusetts Boston and an MBA from Babson College. She currently serves on the Boards of Chanticleer and Handel House Foundation of America.

She is delighted to join her colleague Arthur Rishi in leading Landmarks Orchestra.