"Director of Academic Services and Libraries (University Librarian)"

Newcastle University - Library and Academic Services

Placed On: 19th January 2026

Closes: 15th February 2026

Job Ref: 29020

Company description:

We are a world class research-intensive university. We deliver teaching and learning of the highest quality. We play a leading role in economic, social and cultural development of the North East of England. Attracting and retaining high-calibre people is fundamental to our continued success.

Job description:

Newcastle University is seeking an outstanding leader to join our Professional Services Leadership Team as Director of Academic Services and Libraries.

This is a pivotal senior role at the heart of the University, providing strategic and operational leadership for Library and Academic Services in support of education, research, engagement and the wider student experience. Leading a directorate of around 200 colleagues, the successful candidate will champion a positive, inclusive and student-centred service culture, delivering world-class information resources, distinctive special collections and archives, and expert support for academic and digital literacies.

Reporting to the Registrar, you will shape and deliver a compelling vision for the future of library and academic services, aligned to the University's strategy for Next Generation Newcastle. You will lead our response to rapid digital change, advance open research and educational innovation, and ensure services remain agile, sustainable and future-focused. Working closely with academic and professional services colleagues, you will influence University strategy, foster strong partnerships, and represent Newcastle regionally, nationally and internationally.

We are looking for an experienced, credible leader with a strong track record of strategic delivery, collaborative working and inclusive people leadership, who is motivated by the opportunity to shape services that enable excellence and have lasting impact.

This appointment follows the forthcoming retirement of Jill Taylor-Roe and offers a rare opportunity to lead and further strengthen a highly regarded service at a research-intensive, globally connected university.

You can find more information in our candidate information pack here

For an informal conversation in relation to this role please reach out to Colin Campbell, Registrar. Colin.campbell@newcastle.ac.uk

Assessments and interviews will be held early March 2026