Manager Client Services (Library Services Department) - Re-Advertisement

UWC Online - University of the Western Cape; Bellville; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A university library is seeking a Manager: Client Services to oversee operations such as circulations, inter-library loans, and membership services. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor’s degree in Library Science (or equivalent) and five years of relevant experience in higher education. Responsibilities include implementing operational plans, managing staff, and collaborating on strategic initiatives. Strong leadership and communication skills are essential, as well as a commitment to user satisfaction and inclusion.

Qualifications

• Minimum of five (5) years’ relevant working experience within the higher‑education environment.
• Demonstrable functional knowledge of a Library Management System.
• Staff supervision experience.

Responsibilities

• Provide input into the development of relevant operational and strategic plans.
• Implement the User & Access Services operational plans based on the strategic plan.
• Collaborate on the implementation of the disaster management and OHS plans.
• Keep up to date with industry best practices and advancements in library technology.
• Liaise internally regarding the management and functions of outsourced services.
• Manage the recruitment and payment of claims for student assistants.
• Implement and monitor Quality Assurance practices.
• Leverage data analytics to optimise policy effectiveness and user satisfaction.
• Review and update shelving strategies.
• Liaise with relevant stakeholders to encourage inclusivity.
• Manage staff and students.

Skills

Leadership and Supervisory skills

Effective planning and organisational ability

Strong interpersonal skills

Excellent communication and presentation skills

Ability to work collaboratively and independently

Strong service orientation

Effective problem‑solving skills

Good verbal and written communication skills

Results Orientated

Proficient in using MS Office

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Library and Information Science at NQF level 8

Postgraduate diploma in Library and Information Science at NQF level 8

Job description

The University of the Western Cape Library Services’ vision is to be a strategic partner recognised for our excellence in innovative and relevant library services.

The primary role of the Manager: Client Services is to plan and manage operations that include circulations, short loans, inter-library loans, disability services, membership and visitors as well as after-hours services.

Duties and responsibilities

• Provide input into the development of relevant operational and strategic plans.
• Implement the User & Access Services operational plans based on the strategic plan.
• Collaborate on the implementation of the disaster management and OHS plans.
• Keep up to date with industry best practices and advancements in library technology, such as automated inventory management, self-checkout kiosks, and RFID systems.
• Liaise internally regarding the management and functions of outsourced services, such as cleaning and security.
• Manage the recruitment and payment of claims for student assistants.
• Implement and monitor Quality Assurance practices within User Services.
• Leverage data analytics to optimise policy effectiveness and user satisfaction.
• Review and update shelving strategies to reflect changing user behaviours and needs.
• Liaise with relevant stakeholders such as CSSS and SRC to encourage inclusivity
• Manage staff and students.

Minimum Requirements (Qualification and Experience)

• Bachelor’s degree in Library and Information Science at NQF level 8 OR any degree plus a postgraduate diploma in Library and Information Science at NQF level 8.
• Minimum of five (5) years’ relevant working experience within the higher‑education environment
• Demonstrable functional knowledge of a Library Management System
• Staff supervision experience

Required competencies (skills,knowledge and behavioural attributes)

• Leadership and Supervisory skills
• Effective planning and organisational ability
• Strong interpersonal skills; Ability to work collegially and collaboratively
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently in a team environment
• Strong service orientation and effective problem‑solving skills
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Results Orientated
• Proficient in using MS Office.