Director, Peterborough Public Library/CEO

Located on the Trent-Severn Waterway in the heart of the Kawartha tourism region, Peterborough is a unique community known for its exceptional quality of life and beautiful setting. Peterborough has it all – a multitude of recreational opportunities, a diverse industrial, commercial and agricultural base, quality health care and excellent schools – including two outstanding post-secondary institutions. Peterborough is just one hour from the Greater Toronto area.

Job Details

The Director, Peterborough Public Library/CEO is accountable to the Commissioner, Community Services for the effective management of the Peterborough Public Library and its services. The Director provides leadership in the delivery of inclusive, innovative, and high-quality services. The role manages the planning, implementation, administration, and evaluation of library operations across multiple branches, ensuring alignment with corporate policies and objectives.

Appointed by and reporting to the Library Board under the Public Libraries Act, the Director also serves as Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The CEO provides recommendations and advice to the Library Board regarding governance, advocacy, and supports a responsive and inclusive service environment that reflects community needs.

Qualifications

A minimum of a four-year university degree is required, preferably in a relevant field such as Public Administration, Business Administration, Education, Social Sciences, or Cultural Studies. A Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) from a recognized university is considered an asset. Additional qualifications such as a Master of Public Administration (MPA), Master of Business Administration (MBA), or professional certifications (e.g., Certified Public Library Administrator, Library Leadership and Management Certificate) are also considered assets. 

Minimum of seven (7) years of progressive executive management and leadership experience, ideally within the public library sector or a related municipal or non-profit environment. Experience managing in a unionized setting is essential, with demonstrated expertise in labour relations, including negotiations, grievance response, and conflict resolution. Experience navigating dual governance structures and municipal frameworks is considered an asset. The role requires a proven ability to collaborate effectively with Library Boards, elected officials, and municipal staff, and a deep understanding of library operations, governance, and strategic planning.

Thorough working knowledge of relevant legislation and regulations is required, including but not limited to: the Ontario Public Libraries Act, the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, the Occupational Health and Safety Act, the Employment Standards Act, collective agreements, and the Copyright Act. Knowledge of and familiarity with the Public Libraries Act and other relevant legislation pertaining to libraries in Ontario is essential.

Requires excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills. Requires well-developed communication, facilitation, negotiation, and public relations skills to build effective relationships within the corporation and throughout the community. The Director must exhibit a collaborative and empathetic leadership style, with strong communication skills that foster team cohesion, integrity, and trust.

Demonstrated competency in strategic planning, problem analysis, decision making, and conflict resolution. Strategic and critical thinking, political acuity, and effective problem-solving skills are essential in this dynamic and community-focused environment.

Knowledge and demonstrated experience in planning, organizing, problem solving, program/project evaluation, budget development, financial management, and report-writing. Requires demonstrated leadership, management, and team-building skills to effectively coach, motivate, and direct the work of others.

Requires knowledge of effective performance management practices; training and development techniques; and of the collective bargaining process. Requires the ability to interpret and apply the collective agreement and to achieve positive labour-management relations.

Requires the ability to problem-solve beyond conventional methods, champion and manage change, gain the cooperation of others, and build confidence among peers, City Council, and the community.

Should have a creative/innovative focus on service delivery, a commitment to continuous improvement, respect for the diversity of opinions and perspectives, and be comfortable with a certain level of ambiguity and changing priorities.

This position requires a person to demonstrate leadership and related competencies. Someone who consistently displays a positive, confident, and approachable manner; readily shares and solicits information and input with co-workers; recognizes the diversity of opinions; facilitates interaction and initiates opportunities for change; provides creative and innovative approaches to planning and problem solving and seeks consensus in decision making whenever possible; is comfortable with managing change and conflict; demonstrates commitment to team development and empowerment; understands, and is sensitive to, the dynamics of organizational culture and the role people play in the success of organizational goals and objectives; is committed to self-awareness and evaluation; demonstrates a high level of consistency between practice and stated principles/values; and is perceptive in analyzing and understanding people and management/political systems, structures, and processes. 

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant information technologies is required. Availability to attend evening and weekend meetings or events is expected. A valid driver’s license and access to a personal vehicle for business travel is required. A satisfactory Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check must be provided upon hire

Salary

$159,994

Application Information

Qualified applicants are invited to submit 1 file containing a résumé and cover letter (ensure your name is in the title of the document), quoting file number 25-P-108 on the file as well as in the subject line, no later than 12:00 p.m. on September 22, 2025, to: People & Culture, recruiting@peterborough.ca.

The City of Peterborough is an organization that strives to embrace the spirit of inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility. We are an equal opportunity employer committed to building an inclusive and barrier-free environment in which all individuals have access to the City's goods, services and facilities. If contacted for an employment opportunity, please advise People & Culture if you require an accommodation.