Chief Librarian

Wmc; Surrey; On-site; CAD 207,000 - 243,000; Full time

Job summary

Surrey Libraries is seeking a visionary Chief Librarian to lead a 10-branch system with 300 staff. The role requires translating board goals into innovative services, guiding budgets, policies, and partnerships, and representing the library in the community and with City leadership.

A strong track record in leadership within a unionized environment and an MLIS is essential. You will drive strategic programs, advocate for sustainable funding, and foster an inclusive, community-centered library

Qualifications

• ALA-accredited Master of Library and Information Studies (MLIS) or equivalent.
• Significant leadership experience in a complex, preferably unionized environment.
• Proven success in managing large operating and capital budgets.
• Experience building partnerships with community groups, funders, government and stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Translate Board vision into actionable library strategies and services.
• Oversee budgets, policies, and procedures to ensure excellence in library services.
• Lead a team of 300 staff and foster a patron-focused, inclusive culture.
• Build strong partnerships with community groups, funders and City leadership.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Stakeholder engagement

Strategic planning

Communication skills

Team leadership

Education

ALA-accredited MLIS

Job description

Location: Surrey, BC

Salary: $206,917 - $243,383 | full-time, permanent

Application deadline: September 17, 2026

Surrey Libraries is seeking an inspiring and visionary leader to serve as its next Chief Librarian. Serving a vibrant and rapidly growing community of more than 700,000 residents, the Chief Librarian will provide strategic leadership and operational direction to a dynamic library system that includes 10 branches, mobile services, and a thriving online presence.

Reporting directly to the Library Board and serving as Secretary to the Board, the Chief Librarian also sits on the City of Surrey’s executive team and works closely with the Board, senior leadership, and City leadership to deliver innovative programs, services, and spaces that reflect the Library’s vision, mission, and strategic goals. This is an opportunity to lead a talented and passionate team of 300 staff, fostering a culture that is vibrant, patron-focused, achievement-oriented, and committed to meeting the diverse needs of Surrey’s communities.

You will translate the Board’s vision and goals into actionable strategies that guide services, programs, spaces, and partnerships. You will oversee the development of budgets, policies, and procedures that ensure excellence in library services, while advocating for sustainable funding and pursuing opportunities such as grants, sponsorships, and endowments.

Internally, you will champion workforce development, recruitment, training, and labour relations in a unionized environment, ensuring alignment with organizational values and priorities. Externally, you will be a visible and influential leader, building strong partnerships with community groups, funders, government, and stakeholders, while representing the Library to City leadership, the media, and the public. You will assess community needs and guide the development of inclusive, accessible, and innovative services that reflect the diversity of Surrey.

The ideal candidate will bring an ALA-accredited Master of Library and Information Studies (MLIS), or an equivalent combination of education and experience, along with significant leadership experience in a complex, multifaceted, and preferably unionized environment; library or non-profit experience is a strong asset. You will be a forward-looking, relationship-focused leader with exceptional communication skills, proven success in managing large operating and capital budgets, and the ability to navigate complex political and community contexts with integrity. Experience working with diverse communities and fostering innovative programs will be essential.

This is a rare opportunity to lead one of Canada’s most dynamic public libraries at an exciting time of growth and innovation.

We welcome applications from all qualified individuals and are committed to fostering a recruitment process that is equitable and inclusive.

For more information about Surrey Libraries, visit https://www.surreylibraries.ca.

If you are ready to inspire, innovate, and connect in service to Surrey’s residents, we invite you to apply.