About Us

The Whangārei Central Library provides a full range of library services and activities for all ages, in the heart of our CBD, with branches at Kamo, Onerahi, Tikipunga, plus a mobile library. Hosting over 200,000 items, ranging from books to movies, magazines, and newspapers as well as eBooks and online resources; our libraries offer community-based services our district can be truly proud of.

Just last year our Central Library welcomed 373,138 visitors within its doors and hosted 211 events! You can see why it is often described as a bustling, lively, and vibrant community hub, offering an integral space to gain knowledge, sanctuary, and connection in our community.

The Opportunity

We're seeking a dynamic and forward-thinking Libraries Manager to lead our library services into the future. Libraries today are more than just books - they are vibrant hubs of learning, creativity, and connection. We will be seeking a strong leader who can harness this potential, shaping services that meet the evolving needs of our diverse community.

To be a successful people leader here at WDC you will have the ability to build positive and meaningful connections with your employees and colleagues across the organisation, along with external agencies and community groups; consistently role modeling our tikanga in the way you approach your work. You will be a born problem solver with upbeat energy and a knack for listening to understand.

Inter-personal skills will be a strength, giving you confidence in your ability to negotiate shared success outcomes across the organisation. Our successful candidate will genuinely thrive on empowering your dedicated team to succeed (and grow!) at every opportunity.

You will bring:

• Strategic thinking with a track record of successful leadership in community services or similar field.
• Experience in change management, with the ability to navigate and implement transformation effectively.
• Strong leadership setting positive culture, behaviors, and accountability.
• Passion for innovation and taking library services into the future.
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• A commitment to inclusivity, accessibility, and lifelong learning.
• A commitment to the principles of Te Titiriti o Waitangi and their relevance in offering integrated library services

This is your chance to shape the future of library services and make a lasting impact. If you're ready to lead with vision, energy, and creativity, we'd love to hear from you.

Please note we are open to exploring candidates with solid management experience who do not necessarily have a background or related qualifications in Libraries, though we will be looking for crossover experience in closely related fields such as education or community services.

What Can We Offer You?

As well as living in an amazing part of the world, we tick a lot of boxes when it comes to looking after our people. We reward good performance, celebrate diversity, encourage continuous improvement, and treat everyone with respect - honoring the Te Tiriti and practicing Manaakitanga in everything we do.

Our people enjoy continuous learning and development opportunities, a range of flexible working options, health insurance, life insurance and paid professional memberships.

With a stunning natural environment, great schools, and short commutes, working with us here at Whāngarei District Council will be the positive change you have been looking for. All you need to bring is your energy, your culture, your skills and experience, your dreams… and make it happen!

Ready to apply?

If you are ready to embark on this exciting journey with us, please send through your C.V and a compelling cover letter outlining why you're a great fit for this role! We understand not all applicants will meet all our preferred criteria. Don't be discouraged. Please highlight any transferrable skills and life experience you can confidently offer in equal contribution.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Sian Leith in the People and Capability team on (09) 470 3091 or 0800 932 463.