Executive Brief

Vice-Provost & University Librarian
Queen’s University

September 2020

Vice-Provost & University Librarian

Overview

The Vice-Provost and University Librarian leads Queen's University Library, and plays a central role in supporting the enhancement of the high-quality learning and research environment that is central to the reputation of Queen’s. Queen's University is actively engaged in advancing planning and prioritization for teaching, learning, and research with special emphasis on collaboration and integration to ensure a strong academic and administrative foundation, while preserving capacity for innovation and future opportunities. The Vice-Provost and University Librarian plays a central role in this collaborative planning framework by ensuring that Library programs and services are aligned with those of the campus, by working closely with the faculties and partners in academic planning processes, and by providing leadership for the Queen’s community to ensure learning and scholarship are continually enhanced. The Vice-Provost and University Librarian is a member of the senior leadership team of the University and reports to the Provost and Vice-Principal (Academic).

In November 2019, an external review of Queen’s University Library was completed. The summary report highlights specific opportunities and challenges for the new Vice-Provost and University Librarian and is available online (hyperlinked).

The Role of the University Librarian

The Vice-Provost and University Librarian is engaged in the senior leadership of the University and is responsible for the overall development and administration of the Library and its contributions to teaching, learning, and research at Queen’s University. The incumbent provides vision and leadership for the Library, aligns funding with strategic directions, facilitates the success of Library staff, builds relationships with stakeholders and donors, and represents the Library in the local community, consortia, and organizations (e.g., the Canadian Association of Research Libraries, the Association of Research Libraries). The Vice-Provost and University Librarian collaborates with colleagues inside and outside Queen’s to facilitate scholarly communication and provide information resources and services appropriate for one of Canada’s leading research universities.

The incumbent provides leadership in all aspects of collections, information resources, and services, with particular focus on the following:

Education

A graduate university degree, preferably in Library and Information Sciences or a related field, combined with significant experience as a senior leader within a university library or a large, complex public library system.

Core Leadership Characteristics
  • Visionary: bold, transformative, strategic, execution, initiative, clear focus, action-oriented, entrepreneurial
  • Excellent Communicator: listening, engaging, inclusive, non-hierarchical, clear

  • Skilled Administrator: performance-oriented, systems-focused, accountable, responsive, financially knowledgeable, entrepreneurial, revenue generator

  • Authentic Relationship-builder: empathetic, fair, ethical, objective, pragmatic, consistent, humble

  • Decisive: collaborative, consultative, persuasive, composed

  • Credible: confident, respected, knowledgeable, experienced, balanced, technically competent

  • Mission-focused: passionate, committed to teaching & learning, research, community, and equity, diversity, inclusion and Indigenization 

  • Inspiring: integrity, energizing, encouraging, values diversity, trusting, empowering

 

Skills and Experience

The following skills and experiences will be considered:

  • Senior administrative experience within an academic library environment and/or a large, complex public library system;

  • A commitment to excellence in providing services that enhance student engagement and experiences;

  • A thorough understanding of university library systems and issues;

  • A strong commitment to the central role the library plays in supporting the enhancement of the teaching, learning, and research environments;

  • Demonstrated experience with collections and digital assets;

  • A commitment to fair and transparent processes;

  • The ability to interact effectively, to be a persuasive negotiator and advocate within a collegial University setting, and to foster collaboration and relationship building within the community;

  • Demonstrated cross-cultural knowledge base and skill set with a commitment to developing competencies to best meet the needs of a diverse and international university community;

  • Strategic experience in fiscal management, the ability to use resources wisely and the business acumen to make decisions on resource allocation;

  • The ability to work constructively with others in a unionized team environment, and build positive relationships in the university;

  • Appreciation for, and understanding of, the methods to measure the effectiveness of library activities;

  • A successful record of securing grants, foundation support, and industry partnerships; and,

  • Innovative fundraising and donor stewardship activities.

Employment Equity

The University invites applications from all qualified individuals. Queen's is committed to employment equity and diversity in the workplace and welcomes applications from women, racialized/visible minorities, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and LGBTQ2S+ persons. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada will be given priority.

The University is seeking outstanding candidates who have made a strong contribution to their field, who model a commitment to reconciliation, accessibility, equity, diversity, and inclusion, and who reflect the full diversity of the communities they serve.

Upon receipt of your application, you will receive an invitation from Queen’s University Human Rights and Equity Office to complete a voluntary self-identification questionnaire.

Accommodation during the Recruitment Process and in the Workplace

The University has policies in place to support its employees with disabilities, including an Accommodation in the Workplace Policy and a policy on the provision of job accommodations that take into account an employee's accessibility needs due to disability.

The University will provide support in its recruitment processes to applicants with disabilities, including accommodation that takes into account an applicant's accessibility needs. If you require accommodation because of a disability or for any other reason during the interview process, please contact Jessa Chupik at jchupik@boyden.com.

Steps in the Process

Consideration of candidates, by the search committee, will begin in October 2020. Given the COVID-19 crisis, every effort to accommodate candidates will be made in a way that is equitable and respectful of their additional professional, community, and personal responsibilities during this difficult time. For further information, please contact Jessa Chupik and Michael Naufal at jchupik@boyden.com.

Once we receive the materials of those who express interest in the position, we will compare them against the Candidate Profile and against the backgrounds of other candidates. We will be in touch directly if you are selected to proceed forward with a description of the full process.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Learn more