Maria Straub-David

Purpose-driven arts leader and business administrator with over two decades of experience shaping dynamic theatrical experiences, cultivating high-trust collaborations, and driving operational excellence across stage management, arts administration, and entertainment booking. Recognized for fostering inclusive creative environments, aligning artistic vision with logistical precision, and empowering teams to deliver transformative performances. A strategic connector and values-based communicator who builds enduring relationships with artists, producers, and agencies while championing innovation, integrity, and shared success.

Producer/Stage Manager at Various Theatrical Companies (2000 – Present)

• Spearhead artistic and technical partnerships for theatrical festivals and productions, ensuring contractual clarity, creative alignment, and mutual respect across all stakeholders
• Steward production budgets ranging from $500 to $30,000, balancing fiscal responsibility with artistic ambition to elevate audience experience and rehearsal quality
• Orchestrate rehearsal and performance schedules in accordance with union standards, fostering a culture of respect, transparency, and creative flow
• Serve as a central conduit between artistic and technical teams, translating vision into action through clear communication and proactive problem-solving
• Champion safe, inclusive, and empowering rehearsal environments that support artistic risk-taking and psychological safety

Administrative Assistant at Schaeffer Manufacturing (2020-03 – 2026-01)

• Lead internal event strategy and execution, aligning logistics, aesthetics, and stakeholder engagement to create memorable, mission-aligned experiences
• Served as a trusted partner to senior leadership, managing complex scheduling and communications with discretion and foresight
• Translated data into visual narratives through custom charts and graphs, supporting talent development and organizational learning
• Curated and produce monthly newsletters that foster connection, transparency, and cultural alignment across the Home Office
• Co-developed organizational role architecture and talent mapping tools in collaboration with HR leadership, driving clarity and empowerment across teams

Entertainment Specialist/Booking Agent at LaDeDa Entertainment (2017-09 – 2020-03)

• Directed entertainment logistics for high-impact events, ensuring seamless execution and elevated guest experience
• Designed and managed a multi-state touring program ("The Land of Smiles"), overseeing six performance teams and a $110K annual budget with precision and care
• Negotiated artist contracts with empathy and fairness, ensuring equitable compensation and long-term relationship building
• Oversaw financial operations including invoicing and reconciliation, maintaining transparency and trust with clients and performers
• Authored and maintained operational handbooks to support consistency, onboarding, and program excellence

Operations Coordinator at Metro Theater Company (2012-09 – 2016-06)

• Led donor engagement strategy through curated events and annual gala production, deepening community connection and philanthropic impact
• Managed a $780K operating budget with integrity and strategic foresight, aligning financial stewardship with organizational mission
• Reimagined daily workflows to foster cross-departmental collaboration and operational agility, including the implementation of daily stand-up meetings
• Provided executive-level project support across artistic, educational, and administrative departments, serving as a trusted integrator and culture carrier
• Maintained and optimized database systems to support donor relations, ticketing, and internal operations

– Indiana University-Bloomington