The Opportunity
The Cleveland Heights – University Heights Public Library [Heights Libraries] is seeking a strategic, visionary leader to serve as their next Executive Director. This dynamic position reports to a seven-member Board of Trustees, guides a dedicated staff of 152, and is responsible for the overall operation and management of the library’s departments, services, programs, collections, buildings, employment, and fiscal oversight. As the ambassador and face of the library system, the Executive Director is also tasked with fostering proactive and attentive communications with the Board, staff, customers, and community members.
In addition to organizing, directing, and evaluating all library functions, operations, and activities, the Executive Director will prioritize strategic development, civic engagement, budget planning, resource management, staff collaboration, and championing literacy, intellectual freedom, and privacy.
About the Library and Community
Heights Libraries began its mission to serve the community in 1916. The library system has grown and expanded significantly in the intervening years, but its founding ideals of providing outstanding library services, staff, and facilities has not changed. Heights Libraries are the progressive and adaptive center of the community, connecting people to each other, to their neighborhoods, and to the world. To learn more, visit: https://heightslibrary.org
Located in the heart of Cuyahoga County, Cleveland Heights is a vibrant, diverse, and welcoming community. The area combines historic charm with modern living. Residents enjoy walkable neighborhoods, unique local shops and restaurants, rich arts and cultural offerings, and ample access to beautiful parks and green spaces. With affordable housing and an engaged, community-oriented population, Cleveland Heights provides an excellent quality of life for those looking to live and work in a place that values learning, inclusivity, and civic engagement.
University Heights is an historic inner ring suburb in the heart of the east side of Greater Cleveland, located ten minutes from University Circle, the scientific, medical, and cultural center of Northeastern Ohio. The city’s namesake, John Carroll University, it one of twenty-eight Jesuit universities in the United States. JCU is a leader in undergraduate and graduate education, the city’s largest employer, and an asset to the region.
Position Qualifications and Compensation
- A Master’s degree is required. A Master of Library and Information Science [MLIS] is preferred.
- Ten or more years of progressively responsible library experience, including at least seven years of supervisory experience, is required.
- Experience in community engagement, collaboration, and advocacy [i.e., working and partnering closely with civic/community partners, local businesses, government officials, and other key stakeholders] is required.
- Experience leading new projects and diverse teams to enhance collections, programs, services, facilities, and staff is required.
- Experience managing multiple work locations and a distributed workforce is required.
- Ability to effectively advocate for the library’s [and shared community] values including equity, diversity, intellectual freedom, sustainability, and innovation is required.
- Experience providing strategic financial oversight and managing budgets in alignment with organizational goals is preferred.
A generous compensation package includes a competitive starting pay range of $130,000 to $150,000; earned time-off allowances; medical, dental, and vision insurance; OPERS retirement plan; and more.
To Apply
To be considered for this position, please submit your resume and a cover letter [including salary requirements] to: ryansheehan@oahumanresources.com. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.