Chief Operations Officer

The Opportunity

Are you ready to be a driving force behind an incredible organization that fuels knowledge, innovation, and community impact? Join the Salt Lake City Public Library as our Chief Operations Officer and lead the way in shaping a seamless, cutting-edge library experience for all!

Under the leadership of the Chief Executive Officer/Library Director, and as a member of the Executive Team, the Chief Operations Officer has strategic and operational responsibility for the library’s major support departments: Safety, Facilities, IT, Data, Technical Services and Events. Works collaboratively and strategically with the Chief Executive and other members of the team to spearhead a culture of collaboration, connectedness, and accountability. Directs, administers, plans and coordinates activities related to the support departments in accordance with policies, annual plans and strategic plans established by the library, Mayor and City Council. Facilitates the implementation of strategic goals and services to assist and improve the experience of internal and external stakeholders. Leads the support departments to collaborate cross-functionally and within library-wide teams in alignment with library objectives and strategic goals.

Primary Responsibilities

• Champions the library’s strategic goals and initiatives with the library’s mission and core lap values in mind. 

• Oversee the library structure, policies, procedures, staff assignments, service levels, and administrative systems for the library’s support divisions. 

• Leads the operations team in the development of strategic and operational plans, services, objectives, and budgets as related to library plans. 

• Directs the development and implementation of the library’s operation and capital budgets; leads data informed budget and expenditure decisions for the library; ensures expenditures adhere to the approved budget.

• Drafts, recommends and implements policies, procedures and processes related to Safety, Facilities, IT, Data, Technical Services and Events. 

• Directs the development and implementation of the Library’s data collection, assessment, and dissemination to internal and external stakeholders.

• Monitors and/or oversees the progress of projects or initiatives related to the library operations team.

• Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with library policies, procedures and applicable laws.

• Identifies operational inefficiencies and root causes, identifies solutions and recommends solutions for improved library guest experience and cost reduction within existing services experiences/operations. 

• Oversees the development and implementation of projects related to the Library Facilities Plan, overall asset management, and long-term asset planning strategies.

• Ensures clear and consistent communication to the organization about the status of operational projects and services.

• Mentors staff in Safety, Facilities, IT, Data, Technical Services and Events to ensure professional growth. 

• Provides support and expertise in the development, implementation, collection, evaluation and assessment of library operational support.

• Responsible for negotiating terms of agreements, contracts, MOU’s, etc., related to area of responsibility. 

• Works closely with other Executive Team members; identifies library operational trends and aligns the library’s efforts.

• Provides expert consultation on library operations and the best way to utilize resources.

• Responsible for translating high-level vision and strategies to departmental execution by direct reports.

• Performs other duties as deemed necessary for the smooth performance of the library, or as delegated by the CEO/Library Director.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Library Science, Business Administration, Public Administration, Organizational Development, Nonprofit Management, or a related field. 

• Minimum of five (5) years senior level management experience or seven (7) years of supervisory experience. 

• Three (3) years’ experience in strategic operations including the areas of Safety, Facilities, IT, Data, Technical Services and Events.

• Strong project management, facilitations, coaching, analytical, consulting and written communication skills.

• Demonstrated leadership skills, including experience with mentoring and guiding staff to ensure people and teams are effectively delivering and improving services. Skilled at creating a healthy and positive work environment where open communication and collaboration thrive.

• Proven ability to work with people from a diverse range of backgrounds.

• Ability to assess, recommend, and implement improved policies, processes and procedures relating to departmental oversight.

• Ability to establish and maintain collaborative working relationships with staff, other managers, community members, and the public.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Library and Information Science, Business Administration, Public Administration, Organizational Development, Nonprofit Management, or a closely related field.

• Experience in an executive or senior leadership capacity in a large library. 

• Knowledge of administrative principles and practices, including goal setting and budget development and implementation.

• Advanced communication, negotiation, problem-solving and conflict resolution skills. 

Working Environment

• Work is performed in an office environment

• Normal stress related to working in a busy, public institution.

Schedule

• Full-time, 40 hours per week. Typically business hours Monday–Friday, 9 am to 6 pm. Including evenings and weekends. The position may require occasional travel.

Other Information

• Completion of criminal background check will be required if the candidate is over eighteen (18) years of age.

• The City Library participates in the federal Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify). Employment is contingent upon confirmation of your employment eligibility through the E-verify system.

• The City Library is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to a diverse workforce.

Compensation

• Grade 25; Minimum $107,000 to $134,000/annually depending on qualifications and experience.

• This is a full time position and includes excellent benefits such as paid vacation, health and life insurance, and Utah State retirement benefits.

How to Apply

• Send an email with an attached résumé and cover letter (PDF or Word Document) indicating position title to the Human Resources Department at hrlib@slcpl.org.

• This position will be open until filled, first application review will take place on March 31, 2025.