Executive Director
UNIVERSITY OF JOHANNESBURG (AUCKLAND
CAMPUS)
DIVISION: LIBRARY AND INFORMATION CENTRE
POSITION: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
POST LEVEL: P3
VACANCY: 5 YEAR CONTRACT
Introduction: The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is a vibrant and cosmopolitan institution, guided by its bold UJ Strategic Plan 2035, which emphasises Societal Impact and Sustainability, Global Footprint and Partnerships, and Technology for the Future. Committed to transformative change, UJ’s mission is “To transform and serve humanity through innovation and the collective and collaborative pursuit of knowledge.” The University is guided by the vision of building “An international university of choice, anchored in Africa and the global south, dynamically shaping a sustainable future”
Job Description:
The primary responsibility of the Executive Director: Library and Information Centre is to lead, manage, and ensure the success of the Library and Information Centre (LIC) of the University. The focus is on making the LIC and its services future-fit for lifelong learning and continuous education. The strategic focus of this role is to support and advance the LIC through several targeted interventions, innovations and partnerships including internal and external stakeholders, in a way that contributes, in a way that contributes to the achievement of the University’s Strategic Objectives.
The Library and Information Centre views itself as a globally acknowledged, African gateway to scholarly information. It consists of five libraries at the Bunting Road, Doornfontein, Kingsway and Soweto campuses, a central supporting unit consisting of Library Systems, the Acquisition and bibliographic description of records, the Archives, Special Collections, the Institutional Repository, and various digital technology services such as a Virtual Reality Lab and Makerspace serving students, staff, researchers and visiting scholars at the eight faculties, the College, Business School and professional and support divisions.
The University collection is based on the needs of a modern, new, comprehensive institution and consists of both print and digital information resources. The use of information technology for access and other library functions is an important focus in the implementation of the LIC strategy. A high premium is placed on the preservation and dissemination of knowledge and scholarly communication, information fluency, as well as on the needs of previously disadvantaged students.
The Executive Director will be expected to: • Determine, articulate, implement and lead the Library’s strategic initiatives in accordance with the University’s strategic goals in order to continuously elevate teaching, research, community engagement and global engagement; • Review and advance the Library strategy in accordance with the University’s 2035
strategic objectives; • Take the Library further into new and emerging digital scholarship technologies to support research, teaching and learning in the Fourth Industrial Revolution and beyond; • Conceptualise and collaborate with peer institutions to innovate new, cost-effective, virtual and integrated library models and procurement systems; • Conceptualize and coordinate related strategic initiatives relating to mobilising grants, donations and sponsorships; • Strengthen relationships with stakeholders and partners, nationally and internationally; • Ensure sustained excellence of community engagement; •Promote Library services and resources through coordinated strategic marketing interventions; • Promote the Library and University in broader national and international contexts; • Oversee staff development and management, including retention and recruitment; • Ensure high-quality divisional governance, administration and systems functioning; • Ensure the effective and efficient management and utilisation of the Library’s finances and resources; • Respond to the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) research and innovation-related policy documents, draft proposals and reports and initiate policy; and • Manage risks within the portfolio.
Minimum Requirements: • A PhD Degree (NQF 10) in Library and Information Science, or equivalent. • Substantive and acknowledged academic stature, including peer-reviewed publications and a sound understanding of the current national and international research landscape. • Substantive leadership stature, with an excellent reputation supported by senior academic and/or administrative experience. • In-depth understanding of current national and international debates around library administration and related Approaches, or in-depth understanding of current debates on teaching and learning. • Proven excellent strategic leadership skills and knowledge, insights, and vision to support the academic community and leadership within the University to provide best practice and state-of-the-art library related practices. • Sound knowledge of, insight into, and vision of higher education sector – nationally, regionally, and internationally. • Ability to maintain and strengthen relationships with stakeholders and partners, nationally and internationally. • A proven track record of participation and leadership on both national and international library or research committees, boards, advisory boards, consortia or leadership groups. • Ability to manage the portfolio’s finances and resources effectively and efficiently. • Demonstrated leadership at all levels and in staff recruitment, mentorship and development. • The capacity for strategic leadership and operational excellence within the portfolio. • Proven resource, strategic and people management skills, with exceptional ability and resilience to function under pressure.
Competencies (Technical Skills and Behavioral Attributes) required
- Ability to use technology to improve efficiency and attainment of the University’s strategic goals. • The ability to professionally manage, motivate and display individual leadership qualities. • A high level of financial and numerical acumen. • The ability to ensure the highest level of portfolio governance, efficient administration and systems functioning. • The ability to develop and maintain good networks. • Demonstrate strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities. • The ability to promote, sustain excellence, and manage risks within the portfolio. • Ability to initiate and manage transformation and change effectively. • Exceptional communication skills, on a verbal and written basis, as well as executive level. • Exemplary personal qualities of integrity, sound judgement, energy, passion, and constructive interpersonal skills. • An understanding of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and its impact on higher education and society. • Understanding and commitment to the University’s values and the ability to be a credible and effective exponent of these values.
Recommendation:
- Where applicable, professional registration with a relevant South African statutory body and/or international association. • Experience in a university or comparable environment at an operational and strategic level. •Experience in process modernisation and transformation. • Currently appointed as an Associate Professor or Professor in an academic institution.
Terms of appointment:
The position of Executive Director is a 5-year contract appointment, with an executive-level remuneration and benefits package commensurate with experience and qualifications. The appointment may be renewed for a further two terms of office, subject to performance.
Retirement Age:
The normal retirement age for members of the Executive Leadership Group is 65. Consideration will be given to candidates who would be able to serve for a full 5-year term.
Application:
To apply, please send a detailed Curriculum Vitae and a letter of motivation outlining a possible vision and strategic direction for the position you are applying for. The names and full contact details (including telephone numbers and e-mail addresses) of at least 3 traceable and credible referees, should accompany applications.
Applications should be submitted via the UJ website: https://jobs.uj.ac.za/ or e-mailed to Ms Ayanda Gcabashe
Closing Date: 9 November 2025