Chief Operating Officer, Bodleian Libraries

University of Oxford

Location: Clarendon Building, Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 3BG

The Bodleian Libraries is the largest academic library system in the UK, and one of the world’s greatest libraries. The Bodleian Libraries are a 400-year-old institution that now forms a system of research libraries in the University of Oxford, with over 22 million collection items, vast digital holdings, across 30 plus buildings, some of which are surely the most famous historic structures in Europe. The libraries are core to the University’s academic mission, and serve teaching, learning and research at the University of Oxford. Located within the Gardens, Libraries and Museums Division, the Bodleian sits at the heart of the University, while engaging with the wider community around Oxford and attracting a wide public in person and online, in addition to the scholarly community.

The new Chief Operating Officer (COO) will be the senior administrative and financial lead for the Libraries, sitting on the senior team and taking a leading role in developing to the Libraries’ future strategy. The Bodleian will be reviewing its new strategic plan in the coming year, making this an exciting time to join the organisation. The new COO will have direct responsibility for Finance, Strategic Planning and Estates & Facilities Management. They will be responsible for managing the Libraries’ operating budget and the Bodleian’s 30 buildings. They will be a key player when it comes to assessing and managing risk; they will take a leading role in strategic planning, disaster planning and security for the Libraries. They will act as a representative of the Libraries in wider discussions within GLAM, as well as being a key leader on the implementation of GLAM’s HR shared service in the Bodleian context.

The Bodleian is seeking an exceptional leader with a strong track record of financial and operational management. They will bring an understanding of the Higher Education, and will be able to lead thinking about strategic planning in this context. Ideal candidates will be familiar with risk management in a variety of contexts across finance, HR and estates. Candidates will be motivated and inspirational, with strong interpersonal skills and a belief in collective working. The ability to manage and bring together a broad range of complex stakeholders and think clearly and concisely across intricate environments is also essential.

For further details on the role, please click on the 'Apply' button above.