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DATE ENTERED: March 4, 2024 Chief Executive – Kansas City Public Library (MO) The Kansas City Public Library (Missouri) (“Library”) is seeking a dynamic and visionary Chief Executive to collaboratively develop and implement the Library's strategic vision. In partnership with the Board of Trustees (“Board”), the Chief Executive ensures the fulfillment of the Library’s mission and its future success, while promoting and supporting the highest level of customer service. A forward-thinking leader will operate with a high degree of autonomy, expertly communicate, and problem-solve while keeping the Board and other stakeholders appropriately apprised of both internal conditions and external developments. The Library has been recognized nationally for over 15 years for its presentations of signature events in library facilities, often in cooperation with major regional institutions and independent bookstores, bringing new and diverse groups into the Library for topical and timely programs. Located in the center of a bi-state metropolitan area with a population of over 2.2 million, the Kansas City Public Library is its own taxing jurisdiction with a main Central Library, nine other physical branches, a digital branch, and an established outreach program reaching over 250,000 people. Library highlights include the Missouri Valley Special Collections at the Central Library and vibrant and welcoming branch locations. With 236 FTE and a $30 million annual budget, the next leader will focus attention on institutional culture, developing and implementing the Library’s next strategic plan, developing professional relationships with staff and other stakeholders, promoting collaborative partnerships through civic engagement; and defining and develop an effective internal organizational structure. In addressing the needs of the Library’s service district, the Chief Executive will champion diversity, equity, and inclusivity (DEI) within the Library and the community to ensure that the Library is a welcoming and supportive environment for all community members. The ideal candidate will have excellent interpersonal and communication skills, be comfortable and effective in fundraising activities, and through knowledge of current trends, technologies, and best practices for library services, demonstrate a personal passion for the mission and work of libraries. As would be expected, several of the Library’s current initiatives address challenges and opportunities related to its service district including social justice, immigrant services, addressing the digital divide, social services, and physical security within and adjacent to its branches. The Library has begun a comprehensive review of the capacities and locations of its existing 10 locations relative to community needs and new requirements. Other initiatives include collection development, especially digital materials and services, and the promotion and use of internet technologies to augment physical branches and materials. Situated on Missouri's western border with Kansas, near the confluence of the Kansas and Missouri Rivers, Kansas City is often recognized for its affordability and quality of life with over 240 distinctive, eclectic neighborhoods. Rich with cultural experiences such as museums, theaters, public parks, and festivals and music clubs highlighting the local tradition of jazz music and the blues. The City sponsors several professional sports teams, including the Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas City Royals. Responsibilities: Provide leadership to achieve the mission and goals of the Library by implementing system-wide strategic planning, development, and evaluation of all library services. Oversees all functions of the library system, including public and support services, fundraising campaigns, facility renovations and expansions, finance, human resources, support of emerging technology, and public relations. Establishes and leads a Diversity Equity and Inclusion vision in partnership with the executive leadership team that fosters a culture of continuous learning, feedback, and best practices. Formulates or revises policies and procedures affecting the library's operations; directs and works with senior leadership in matters related to the library; advises and supports the Library Board of Trustees in the board’s governing role through the development of appropriate policies for institutional and board governance, development of reports and other information and provision of Library Board orientation, ongoing training, and professional involvement. Provides leadership in library advocacy and community outreach through public relations strategies, regular and frequent contact with news media, and delivery of presentations to community groups on library issues. The Chief Executive participates in community and professional activities and boards and cultivates effective professional relationships with local government and legislative bodies, library staff and management, professional and institutional organizations, state and national library organizations, educational institutions at all levels, and the community at large. Additional responsibilities and information are included in the job description on our website linked below. Qualifications: Qualifications include an advanced degree in library sciences (preferred), public administration, or a related field, plus either three years of supervisory experience at a senior management level in a complex organization or three years of executive leadership experience in the operation of a medium to large organization. Alternative education, experience and qualifications may be considered.
View the most up to date version of this announcement in its entirety along with accompanying links on our website. (https://bradburymiller.com/current-clients/).
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