Salary negotiable
Location: Gauteng Based, On-site
Closing date: 31 May 2026
Our client in the Education sector is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Head Academic Librarian to lead and manage their academic library environment. The successful candidate will oversee Knowledge Centre and eLibrary operations that support specialised academic programmes, ensuring access to high‑quality resources and services.
This role is responsible for developing and maintaining relevant collections, integrating emerging technologies, supporting research initiatives, and leading a high‑performing library team. The position also requires strong collaboration with academic staff to align library services with curriculum needs, research objectives, and student development.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Planning
- Develop long‑term strategies for library growth and enhanced service delivery.
- Align library operations with institutional goals and academic priorities.
Collection Development & Management
- Oversee acquisition, organisation, and maintenance of print and digital resources.
- Ensure the collection supports academic programme requirements across disciplines.
Budget & Resource Management
- Manage the library budget and allocate resources effectively.
- Explore opportunities for grants, partnerships, and external funding.
Team Leadership
- Recruit, supervise, mentor, and develop library staff.
- Foster a culture of continuous learning and excellence.
Technology & Systems Integration
- Implement and manage digital library systems and tools.
- Stay current with emerging technologies relevant to academic librarianship.
Academic Support & Collaboration
- Partner with faculty to strengthen research, teaching, and learning.
- Provide specialised research support and coordinate information literacy programmes.
Policy, Compliance & Reporting
- Develop and enforce library policies and procedures.
- Ensure compliance with copyright and licensing requirements.
- Produce reports on library usage, performance, and strategic needs.
Engagement & Partnerships
- Build relationships with academic institutions, libraries, and industry bodies.
- Promote library services through advocacy and effective communication.
Minimum Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Information Systems Management or Information Science.
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in a tertiary education library environment.
- Proven knowledge of academic library trends, especially within distance education.
- Skilled in literature searching, reference management, and digital resource support.
- Experience with emerging technologies, digital platforms, and social media tools.
- Subject‑specific knowledge in IT resources or resource management is advantageous.
Competencies
- Effective leadership and people management.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Strategic and innovative thinking.
- Emotional intelligence and conflict‑resolution skills.
- Project management and organisational skills.
- Financial acumen and budgeting capability.
- Technological proficiency and data analysis ability.
- Marketing, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement.
- Cultural awareness and inclusive practice.
- Problem‑solving and continuous learning mindset.
Application Process
Interested candidates are invited to complete the application form and upload their CV using the link below:
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews within one week after the closing date.
