Head of Library Services and University Librarian

About the role

Bournemouth University is seeking an outstanding and forward-thinking leader to join Academic Services as Head of Library Services and University Librarian.

This is a pivotal opportunity to lead the strategic development of a modern, inclusive and digitally enabled Library and Learning Services function that plays a core role in delivering the University’s ambitions under our new strategy, BU2035. You will shape services that are innovative, student-centred and evidence-based, ensuring they respond to the evolving needs of learning, teaching and research in a dynamic higher education environment.

Reporting to the Academic Registrar, you will provide strategic leadership across library services, academic skills, learning support and open research. You will lead the development of high-quality, integrated and accessible services, ensuring they deliver measurable impact on student success, engagement and outcomes, and support the University’s performance against key regulatory and strategic priorities.

You will drive a culture of continuous improvement, using data and insight to inform decision-making, optimise service delivery and demonstrate impact. This includes leading the effective management of library resources, systems and spaces, ensuring provision is sustainable, cost-effective and aligned to institutional digital and IT strategies.

The role is critical in ensuring equitable and high-quality library and learning support across all modes of delivery, including partnership and transnational education activity, working collaboratively with academic and professional service colleagues to meet institutional quality expectations.

As a member of the Academic Services Executive team, you will work collaboratively across the institution to drive continuous improvement, digital innovation and inclusive practice fostering a high-performing, inclusive and forward-looking culture. You will also represent the University externally, engaging with sector bodies and professional networks to ensure Bournemouth University remains at the forefront of sector development and innovation.

About the department

Our Academic Services department is made up of Academic Registry, Academic Quality, Academic Operations, Admissions and Library and Learning Services.

Academic Services creates an enabling academic environment, which shares expertise, builds capabilities and inspires stakeholders through sector leading, user centred processes and outstanding service delivery.

About us

Bournemouth University’s vision is worldwide recognition as a leading university for inspiring learning, advancing knowledge and enriching society through the fusion of education, research and practice. Our highly skilled and creative workforce is comprised of individuals drawn from a broad cross section of the globe, who reflect a variety of backgrounds, talents, perspectives and experiences that help to build our global learning community.

BU values and is committed to an inclusive working environment. We seek a diverse community through attracting, developing and retaining staff from different backgrounds to contribute to inspirational learning, advancing knowledge and enriching society. To support and enable our staff to achieve a balance between work and their personal lives, we will also consider proposals for flexible working or job share arrangements.