About the CEO Role
The role of the CEO requires an experienced leader who will build on WPL’s strategic and fiscal accomplishments. The CEO is visionary, inspiring, and community-minded with an ability to connect with public, private and not-for-profit stakeholders, donors, and partners. The successful candidate will be joining WPL at an exciting time as we launch our highly anticipated Eastside Branch, as well as continuing to provide diverse and inclusive services and programs for our community.
Key Accountabilities:
- Reporting to the Waterloo Public Library Board, under the authority of the Ontario Public Libraries Act, the CEO provides visionary, strategic and fiscally-responsible organizational oversight
- In collaboration with Board and Staff, guides the creation and delivery of the Strategic Plan, encompassing the library’s vision, values, goals, and strategic direction
- Working with Board and Staff ensures strong stakeholder, donor and community advocacy and support for the library
- Oversees all operations and business activities to ensure the desired results are achieved in alignment with the Strategic Plan
- Responsible for management of an annual budget in excess of $7.6 million, including all financial plans, resources, and budget targets
- Ensures the Library is fiscally and ethically responsible and adheres to all legal requirements and approved policies
- Mentors and develops a strong leadership team
- Inspires and leads a team of more than 100 employees and almost 250 volunteers
- Develops and augments strategic alliances and partnerships with key community and government stakeholders, funders and donors
- Inspires and supports an environment of continuous growth and innovation
- Maintains awareness of best practices and trends in librarianship
- Contributes to regional, provincial, and national library communities to benefit from shared experiences and best practices
- Ensures the development and delivery of an outstanding level of customer service to the community
Candidate Profile:
With a deep understanding of and passion for libraries and their place in society, the CEO is an innovative, visionary, natural leader and relationship builder. They demonstrate business acumen, accountability, and critical decision-making. An effective influencer and communicator, the CEO is committed to meaningful community engagement and outreach.
An empowering and empathetic team builder, the CEO facilitates the strengths in others with a focus on team development and success. They demonstrate commitment to and promotion of equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging within the organization and among the wider community. While adhering to strong ethics and values in achieving library objectives, they build consensus among others and consistently consider the long-term impacts of decisions.
Education and Experience:
- Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) or equivalent education and experience
- Minimum 8 years of senior management experience in a library system or similar organization
- Experience working with, or on behalf of, diverse and vulnerable communities in a library, public or not-for-profit environment
- Innovative, creative and responsive approach to addressing ever-changing sector and societal challenges and opportunities
- Solid understanding of finance, reporting and performance management principles
- Critical thinking and analytical abilities with demonstrated problem-solving skills, and ease in complex decision making
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, public speaking, and social media skills
- Strong team-building skills and proven management experience
- Exceptional relationship management experience including with key stakeholders in government, public and private sectors
