Chief Librarian/Chief Executive Officer
Greater Victoria Public Library

After consulting with key partner groups at the Greater Victoria Public Library, the following opportunities and challenges were identified for the new Chief Librarian/CEO:

Advancing Strategic Positioning and Institutional Impact
GVPL is a trusted and valued public institution, with an opportunity to further elevate its role within the region. The CEO will bring a strong strategic lens, focusing on long-term direction, organizational priorities, and evidence-based decision-making. This includes articulating the evolving role of the library, strengthening its relevance within the broader community and public service landscape, and building the case for future investment and growth.

Enhance Community Presence and Public Leadership
GVPL is deeply embedded in the Greater Victoria community, with high levels of public engagement and visibility. The CEO plays a prominent external role, engaging regularly with residents, community leaders, and public officials. Success in the role requires a leader who is comfortable operating in a highly visible environment and representing the organization with credibility, approachability, and professionalism.

Lead a Regional Library System within a Multi-Municipal Governance Model
GVPL operates within a unique governance structure, serving ten municipalities through a single Board of Trustees. This requires a leader who can navigate multiple perspectives, balance local and regional priorities, and build alignment across a diverse group of elected officials and representatives around a shared vision for library services, while advancing a cohesive, system-wide approach to service delivery.

Strengthen Municipal Relationships and Funding Alignment
GVPL is funded through a shared municipal model, requiring ongoing engagement with elected officials and senior administrative leaders across the region. The CEO will play a key role in clearly articulating GVPL’s value and impact, while balancing strong community demand for services with increasing pressure on municipal budgets and ensuring alignment between priorities and sustainable funding.

Balance Service Delivery, Safety, and Community Needs
As a welcoming public space, GVPL operates within a broader library environment where organizations are increasingly responding to evolving community needs, including supporting vulnerable populations. The CEO will be responsible for balancing the library’s values of inclusion and accessibility with operational considerations, ensuring thoughtful, responsive, and sustainable service delivery for all members of the community.

Lead, Support, and Engage a Unionized Workforce
GVPL’s staff are central to delivering high-quality services. The CEO will lead a dedicated and unionized workforce, fostering trust, engagement, and accountability while supporting a positive and inclusive workplace culture. A leadership style grounded in collaboration, trust, transparency, and strong interpersonal skills will be critical to success.