National Library of Scotland
Chief Executive
Salary – competitive
Location – Edinburgh
The National Library of Scotland is the guardian of the printed and recorded memory of Scotland, held on behalf of the nation. It fulfils a statutory role as one of Scotland’s most significant cultural and research organisations. The National Library is a major European research library and one of the world’s leading centres for the study of Scotland and the Scots. It is the largest library in Scotland with over 34 million items and is one of the six Legal Deposit Libraries entitled to claim a copy of every printed and electronic work published in the UK and Ireland.
The Board of Trustees are now seeking exceptional candidates to apply for the position of Chief Executive. In an environment of rapid change and challenges, the post-holder will maintain the National Library of Scotland’s position as one of the pre-eminent national libraries by carrying forward with the Board and Library colleagues the delivery of the Library’s strategy, by actively engaging with a broad range of diverse communities within Scotland and by ensuring that the Library operates in accordance with its legal, corporate and broader social responsibilities.
Candidates for the role should ideally bring a track record of leadership in a similarly large and complex organisation. They will be a strategic leader and inspiring people manager. The ability to communicate in a compelling manner and present to a diverse range of stakeholders will be important. The post-holder will ideally bring experience of managing cultural assets or information services, understand how the use of digital technology can deliver strategic change and be a natural collaborator and partnership builder. It is desirable that candidates have some knowledge of, and can demonstrate a passion for, Scottish culture and be able to convey that with authority.
Saxton Bampfylde Ltd is acting as an employment agency advisor to the National Library of Scotland on this appointment. For further information about the role, including details about how to apply, please visit www.saxbam.com/appointments using reference EAOAXA. Alternatively, telephone +44 (0)20 7227 0880 (during office hours). Applications should be received by noon on Friday 14th May 2021.