Permanent | Full-time

E ngā iwi, e ngā karangatanga huri noa i te motu, tēnei te mihi atu ki a koutou katoa. He īnoi tēnei ki a koe. Tono mai ki tētahi tūnga ki te Kaunihera o Ōtautahi

We invite visionary leaders to apply for a nationally significant role shaping the future of library and information services in one of Aotearoa's most dynamic cities.

Lead a respected, future-focused library network at a time of growth and innovation in Ōtautahi Christchurch. As a key member of the senior leadership team, you'll influence strategy, drive transformation, and champion lifelong learning, equity, and community wellbeing.

You will:

• Provide strategic leadership across a large, multi-site team and service network.
• Drive innovation in digital inclusion, access, and service design.
• Build strong partnerships across council, iwi, education, and community sectors.
• Develop people and build leadership capability for long-term impact.
• Shape the future of libraries in a thriving, globally connected city.

What Sets This Role Apart

Christchurch is thriving — leading nationally in innovation, investment, and quality of life. With major public infrastructure, a growing population, and a vibrant cultural scene, the city offers an exciting platform for leadership and legacy-building.

This role offers strategic visibility, autonomy, and the chance to make a lasting impact.

Curious about what it's like to work in Libraries? Hear directly from our team in the video at the bottom of this page as they share their experiences and what they're looking for in their next leader.

Inspired to be part of the journey? Keep reading to learn more and discover how you can join the team!

About You | Ko Koe Tēnei

You bring:

• Significant senior leadership experience in Libraries, GLAM, Education, or related sectors.
• Strategic thinking, authenticity, and courage to challenge the norm.
• Proven ability to lead large, multidisciplinary teams across multiple facilities.
• A collaborative, people-focused approach to change and innovation.
• Commitment to lifelong learning, digital transformation, and inclusive access.
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and understanding of (or willingness to learn & embrace) the cultural values that shape New Zealand's society, including Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

What's in it for you? He aha ngā hua ki a koe?

Want to be involved in shaping your City? Here at the Council we know our strength comes from our people, working together as one team to create results. When you join us, you're getting involved first hand, and contributing to crafting the Christchurch community. You will also benefit from:

• Access to training programmes, workshops, and development opportunities
• Flexible working arrangements - WFH, adjustable start and finish times, option to purchase extra leave.
• Collaboration - exposure to wider areas of the organisation
• Benefits - a variety of benefits for Council staff from health schemes to retail discounts.
• If this sounds like an interesting opportunity, you think you have what it takes and want to get involved in shaping our City then please apply today.

Applications close on Tuesday 21st October 2025.

Read more here
Download the full Job Description here

Successful applicants must be legally entitled to live and work in New Zealand. While all applications will be reviewed, first priority will be given to those applicants who are currently residing in New Zealand.