Library & Heritage Services Lead

Gateshead Council; Gateshead; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Outstanding Pension Scheme

28 days annual leave (rising to 32)

Learning & Development

Health & Wellbeing Support

Cycle to Work Scheme

Electric & Hybrid Car Scheme

Salary sacrifice discounts via VIVUP

Job summary

Gateshead Council is seeking an experienced Library Manager to lead the Libraries and Heritage Service across Gateshead. You will drive service improvement, manage staff and budgets, and build strategic partnerships to deliver high‑quality library and heritage provisions for diverse communities.

You will shape programmes, champion inclusion and wellbeing, and ensure excellent customer service while aligning with council priorities and Thrive objectives.

Qualifications

• Degree in Library and Information Management (or equivalent professional qualification).
• Proven experience managing library, heritage or community-focused services.
• Strong leadership and people management skills with a track record of motivating teams.
• Excellent partnership building and stakeholder engagement abilities.
• Experience delivering innovative programmes, events or services for diverse audiences.

Responsibilities

• Take an active role in the overall management of library services, including project management and service development, ensuring high customer service standards.
• Manage staff, including supervision, development and performance management, and allocate resources effectively.
• Develop partnerships and opportunities with stakeholders to support public health and Thrive priorities.
• Lead programme development in a specialist area and contribute to wider Libraries and Heritage priorities.
• Ensure premises are well managed and health & safety requirements are met.

Skills

People management

Leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Strategic planning

Communication

Budget management

Customer service

Education

Degree in Library and Information Management (or equivalent)

Job description

Gateshead Council is seeking an experienced Library Manager to lead the Libraries and Heritage Service across Gateshead. You will drive service improvement, manage staff and budgets, and build strategic partnerships to deliver high‑quality library and heritage provisions for diverse communities.

You will shape programmes, champion inclusion and wellbeing, and ensure excellent customer service while aligning with council priorities and Thrive objectives.