Kevin Smith to stay on as Minnesota Orchestra CEO

After saying for months he was not interested in the full-time job, Minnesota Orchestra Interim President Kevin Smith on Wednesday became the organization's permanent chief executive.

Smith, who ran the Minnesota Opera for 25 years, took over as interim leader in the wake of a labor dispute and 16-month lockout of the orchestra's musicians.

Smith initially said he had no interest in the job long term, but his view changed once he was in place.

"This wasn't something I sought to do, or planned to do, but it's been very gratifying both on an individual basis and gratifying because I think I am accomplishing something for the organization and the community," Smith said. "And if I can do that, why not?"

His contract runs through the 2017-18 season.

During that time, the orchestra will negotiate new contracts with both the musicians and music director Osmo Vanska.

"I think everyone is committed to a collaborative process to come up with a new agreement that provides a solid base upon which we can build the organization," Smith said.