St. Louis Symphony Orchestra names Tracy Hansen Chief Financial Officer
(September 10, 2026, St. Louis, MO) – Today, the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra (SLSO) announced the appointment of Tracy Hansen, CPA CPFO, as its Chief Financial Officer. She succeeds Christine Shutt, who has served in an interim capacity since February 2026.
Hansen brings 25 years of senior strategic financial management experience in both the nonprofit and government sectors. Previously, she served as the Director of Finance for the City of Des Peres, providing executive leadership for all financial operations and serving as a key advisor to the City Administrator, Mayor, and Board of Aldermen, overseeing the city’s annual budget of nearly $33 million. Prior to that, she served as Controller of Congregation B’nai Amoona in Creve Coeur, and also brings experience from the real estate and banking industries. A Certified Public Finance Officer and Certified Public Accountant, she received her bachelor’s degree in accounting from Maryville University.
In her role, Hansen will report to President and CEO Marie-Hélène Bernard, leading the SLSO’s Finance and Administration team, and guiding all day-to-day financial responsibilities related to the institution’s $38 million budget, long-term financial planning, human resources, and information technology.
Marie-Hélène Bernard, SLSO President and CEO, said, “Tracy Hansen brings outstanding strategic financial expertise to this position as the SLSO continues its forward momentum with the opening of the Jack C. Taylor Music Center. She has built her career around public service, stewardship, and mission alignment and is deeply invested in advancing the SLSO’s mission through thoughtful and transparent financial leadership. I am confident that she will be a great partner as the SLSO enters an exciting era and navigates complex projects ahead.”
Tracy Hansen, SLSO Chief Financial Officer, said, “I am thrilled to join the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and excited to be part of an organization with such a remarkable history and a compelling future. I look forward to working alongside Marie-Hélène and the talented leadership team, board and staff to ensure the Symphony sustains the financial strength and organizational foundation to continue delivering extraordinary music and meaningful experiences to our community for generations to come.”
Daniel Wessel, Treasurer of the SLSO Board of Trustees, said, “Tracy Hansen has strong knowledge of financial planning and administration across a variety of sectors, and her alignment with the SLSO’s mission makes her an ideal fit for the team. I look forward to partnering with her as we advance the strong financial footing of the SLSO.”
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