DOUGLAS "DOUGIE" SCHMIDT
Austin,TX
Summary
Driven, versatile music industry professional specializing in artist relations and festival operations, with success managing high-profile talent and overseeing comprehensive artist hospitality and logistics programs. Known for building lasting industry relationships and consistently exceeding artist expectations through meticulous planning and dynamic problem-solving and a proven track record of turning operational challenges into opportunities for strengthening artist and management relationships.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
Artist Relations Manager
Blue Note Jazz Festival
01.2020 - Current
- Manage comprehensive artist hospitality programs, including accommodations, transportation, and green room requirements
- Negotiate and process artist contracts and riders for optimal financial results while maintaining strong industry relationships
- Develop and maintain strong rapport with artists through consistent professionalism and dedicated career support
- Foster clear communication between talent, production crews, venue staff, and stakeholders throughout event lifecycle
- Create and maintain detailed artist itineraries and schedules, ensuring precise timing of all festival activities
- Supervise and mentor junior artist relations team members while fostering a positive, goal-oriented environment
- Maintain comprehensive database of artist contacts, technical requirements, and historical performance data
- Coordinate with security teams to implement artist-specific safety protocols and VIP arrangements
- Serve as primary liaison to high-caliber talent (including Dave Chappelle, Andre 3000, John Legend, Nile Rogers, Mos Def, Snoop Dogg, Mary J. Blige, and more) and their respective agents/management
Artist Management & Development
Self-employeed
01.2017 - Current
- Guide career development and creative direction for emerging electronic music artists
- Book and negotiate performance opportunities at clubs, festivals, and support slots
- Manage social media presence and growth across key platforms
- Coordinate music releases and promotional campaigns
- Build and maintain industry relationships with labels, promoters, and other managers
- Handle contract review and negotiation for shows, releases, and collaborations
- Organize tour logistics including travel, lodging, and tech requirements
- Create promotional materials including press kits and artist bios
- Track revenue streams and handle basic accounting
- Facilitate networking and collaboration opportunities within music community
Artist Relations Manager
Northern Nights Music Festival
01.2015 - Current
- Coordinate all artist transportation, accommodation, and hospitality.
- Manage complex technical requirements for multiple stages, working closely with sound teams to accommodate specific bass music needs and audio specifications
- Negotiate and process artist contracts and riders while navigating the unique demands of festival camping environment
- Build and maintain authentic relationships within the electronic music community through consistent professionalism and cultural understanding
- Facilitate clear communication between artists, stage managers, sound engineers, and festival operations team across a 24-hour programming schedule
- Create and maintain detailed artist schedules accounting for extended set times, B2B performances, and sunrise/sunset slots
- Lead and mentor artist relations team while maintaining positive energy throughout high-intensity festival environment
- Maintain comprehensive database tracking artist preferences, technical specs, and stage plot requirements for multiple performance areas
- Serve as primary liaison to electronic music artists and their teams, managing relationships with talent including Diplo, Claude VonStroke, Zhu, Maya Jane Coles, Clozee, and Odesza
ADA – Team Lead
See The Show
01.2018 - 01.2023
- Oversee festival-wide ADA compliance strategy and implementation across all venues, stages, and camping areas
- Manage ADA check-in process, wristband distribution, and guest accommodations including camping assignments
- Lead and schedule ADA team members and golf cart drivers providing transportation services
- Supervise ADA viewing platforms and companion pass distribution at all stages
- Maintain accessible routes throughout the festival, ensuring clear paths and proper signage
- Coordinate with medical, security, and operations teams on ADA-related protocols and emergency response
- Document all accommodations and incidents while gathering feedback for future improvements
Artist Liaison
World Famous Productions
01.2015 - 01.2023
- Act as the face of the program at various events, and throughout the year to maintain personal contact with talent, strengthen relationships, and encourage repeat/new client growth
- Provide unprecedented service to artist, their teams, and their families as 24/7 concierge service during events throughout the year
- Created a welcoming atmosphere within green rooms by attending to every detail from décor preferences to dietary restrictions, fostering a positive environment for artists.
- Provided comprehensive day-of-event support including backstage coordination, minimizing stressors for performing artists.
- Curated guest lists for exclusive events, ensuring an optimal mix of industry professionals in attendance.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Psych/Pre-law
University of Texas At Austin
Austin, TX05-2026
Bachelor of Arts - General Education
Orange Coast College
Costa Mesa05-2024
Skills
- Client management
- Sales experience
- Talent scouting
- Creative Direction
- Time Management
- Attention to Detail
- Problem-Solving
- Excellent Communication
- Organizational Skills
References
- Lindsey Mullins, World Famous, Manager, (707)502-6851
- John-John Stebbins, See the Show, Owner/Manager, (530)321-1024
- Matty Roberts, World Famous, Owner, (918)640-9486
Timeline
Artist Relations Manager
Blue Note Jazz Festival
01.2020 - Current
ADA – Team Lead
See The Show
01.2018 - 01.2023
Artist Management & Development
Self-employeed
01.2017 - Current
Artist Relations Manager
Northern Nights Music Festival
01.2015 - Current
Artist Liaison
World Famous Productions
01.2015 - 01.2023
Bachelor of Science - Psych/Pre-law
University of Texas At Austin
Bachelor of Arts - General Education
Orange Coast College
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