Executive Director Library & Information Centre

University of Johannesburg; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 500 000 - 600 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading South African university is seeking an Executive Director to lead its library services. This role involves strategic planning and implementation in alignment with the university's 2035 goals, enhancing community engagement, and promoting innovative library practices. The ideal candidate should have a PhD in Library and Information Science, proven leadership in higher education, and strong stakeholder engagement skills. This position offers an executive-level package and a 5-year contract, with the possibility of renewal based on performance.

Qualifications

• PhD in Library and Information Science required.
• Substantive leadership stature with academic and administrative experience.
• Proven strategic leadership skills in higher education.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Library’s strategic initiatives aligned with University goals.
• Advance the Library strategy with respect to the 2035 objectives.
• Innovate integrated library models and procurement systems.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Financial acumen

Effective communication

Problem-solving

Education

PhD Degree in Library and Information Science or equivalent

Job description

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is a vibrant and cosmopolitan institution guided by its bold UJ Strategic Plan 2035, which emphasises Societal Impact, Sustainability, Global Footprint, Partnerships, and Technology for the Future. UJ’s mission is to transform and serve humanity through innovation and the collective sorter pursuit of knowledge. The vision is to build an international university of choice anchored in Africa and the global south, dynamically shaping a sustainable future.

Duties & Responsibilities

Executive Director will be expected to:

• Determine, articulate, implement and lead the Library’s strategic initiatives in گذ accordance with the University’s strategic goals to continuously elevate teaching, research, community engagement, and global engagement معم.
• Review and advance the Library strategy in accordance with the University’s 2035 strategic objectives.
• Take the Library further into new and emerging digital scholarship technologies to support research, teaching and learning in the Fourth Industrial Revolution and beyond.
• Conceptualise and collaborate with peer institutions to innovate cost‑effective virtual and integrated library models and procurement systems.
• Conceptualise and coordinate related strategic initiatives related to mobilising grants, donations and sponsorships.
• Strengthen relationships with stakeholders and partners nationally and internationally.
• Ensure sustained excellence of community engagement.
• Promote library services and resources through coordinated strategic marketing interventions.
• Promote the Library and University in broader national and international contexts.
• Oversee staff development and management, including retention and recruitment.
• Ensure high‑quality governance, administration and systems functioning.
• Ensure effective and efficient management and utilisation of the Library’s finances and resources.
• Respond to the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) research and innovation‑related policy documents, draft proposals and reports, and initiate policy.
• Manage risks within the portfolio.

Desired Experience & Qualification

• A PhD Degree (NQF 10) in Library and Information Science or equivalent.
• Substantive and acknowledged academic stature, including peer‑reviewed publications and a sound understanding of the current national and international research landscape.
• Substantive leadership stature with an excellent reputation supported by британ academic and/or administrative experience.
• In‑depth understanding of current national and international debates around library administration and related approaches, or teaching and learning.
• Proven excellent strategic leadership skills and knowledge, insights and vision to support the academic community and leadership within the University.
• Sound knowledge of the higher education sector nationally, regionally and internationally.
• Ability to maintain and strengthen relationships with stakeholders and partners nationally and internationally.
• Proven track record of participation and leadership on national and international library or research committees, boards, advisory boards, consortia or leadership groups.
• Ability to manage the portfolio’s finances and resources effectively and efficiently.
• Demonstrated leadership at all levels and in staff recruitment, mentorshipুজ and development.
• Capacity for strategic leadership and operational excellence within the portfolio.
• Proven resource strategy and people management skills with exceptional ability and resilience to function under pressure.

Competencies (Technical Skills and Behavioral Attributes) required

• Ability to use technology to improve efficiency and attainment of the University’s strategic goals.
• Professional, motivating and displaying individual leadership qualities.
• High level of financial and numerical acumen.
• Capability to ensure the highest level of portfolio governance, efficient administration and systems functioning.
• Ability to develop and maintain good networks.
• Strong problem‑solving and decision‑making capabilities.
• Promotion of sustained excellence and risk management within the portfolio.
• Capability to initiate and manage transformation and change effectively.
• Exceptional communication skills on a verbal and written basis as well as executive level.
• Exemplary personal qualities of integrity, sound judgement, energy, passion and constructive interpersonal skills.
• Understanding of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and its impact on higher education and society.
• Understanding and commitment to the University’s values and the ability to be a credible and effective exponent of these values.

Recommendation

• Professional registration with a relevant South African statutory body and/or international association (where applicable).
• Experience in a university or comparable environment at an operational and strategic level.
• Experience in process modernisation and transformation.
• Currently appointed as an Associate Professor or Professor in an academic骗局揭秘.

Terms of appointment

The position of Executive Director is a 5‑year contract appointment with an executive‑level remuneration and benefits package commensurate with experience and qualifications. The appointment may be renewed for a further two terms of office subject to performance.

Retirement Age

The normal retirement age for members of the Executive Leadership Group is 65. Consideration will be given to candidates who would be able to serve for a full 5‑year term.

Application Instructions

To apply please send a detailed Curriculum Vitae and a letter of motivation outlining a possible vision and strategic direction for the position you are applying for. The names and full contact details (including telephone numbers and e‑mail addresses) of at least 3 traceable and credible referees should accompany applications. Applications should be submitted via the UJ website: emailed to Ms Ayanda Gcabashe.

Required Experience

Director

Key Skills

• Children Activity
• Fund Management
• Event Planning
• Fabrication
• Airlines
• Corrosion

Employment Type

Contract

Experience

Years

Vacancy

1

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