University Librarian

Lakehead University is actively seeking to appoint a new University Librarian. With oversight of the University’s archives and five libraries, based across the Thunder Bay and Orillia campuses, the University Librarian will play a key role in furthering the University’s research and learning objectives for the coming decade and beyond.

Lakehead University

Celebrated as one of Canada's leading academic institutions, Lakehead University offers more than 85 academic programs that are grouped within 9 Faculties from a comprehensive selection of academic areas of study. Lakehead is an innovative comprehensive university that prioritizes how to think, not what to think. Closely tied to that enterprising spirit is a deep connection to place. Lakehead is committed to making a difference in the communities it serves, developing a broader understanding of societal issues, and inspiring action for thoughtful, positive change. Lakehead University is also committed to the success of Indigenous learners and to its relationships with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples based on the principles of mutual trust, respect, reciprocity, and collaboration in the spirit of reconciliation. Lakehead University acknowledges the history that many nations hold in the areas around its three campuses.

Lakehead University Libraries

Lakehead University Libraries serve its campuses through a network of facilities, including the Chancellor Paterson Library, Education Libraries, Harvie Legacy Library, Law Library, and Archives & Special Collections. A team of 30 library staff, including 11 librarians, provides innovative services that support learning, teaching, and research, strengthened by active participation in provincial and national consortia such as OCUL, Scholars Portal, Omni, Dataverse, and Collaborative Futures. The Libraries’ vision positions them as bold, agile, and essential partners to the University community, with strategic priorities focused on accessible spaces, digital discovery, scholarly communication, information literacy, and ongoing organizational renewal.

The Role

Reporting to the Provost and Vice-President Academic, the University Librarian provides strategic leadership and direction to Lakehead Libraries, serving as an active and integral partner with students, staff, faculty, Deans and the Senior Management Team. The Libraries play a key role in promoting knowledge creation, exploration and discovery. The University Librarian works toward achieving the University's mission and goals as outlined in the University's strategic plan, and in fulfilling Lakehead Library's mission to advance research, learning and teaching excellence.

The University Librarian is accountable for cultivating a library and learning environment aligned with Lakehead’s vision by guiding the development of strategies, policies, systems, collections and services. As a senior leader, the University Librarian sits on the Provost’s Council and is actively involved in institution-wide strategy. The University Librarian effectively advocates and represents the library’s perspectives and needs within the University and to external partners.

The Ideal Candidate

The successful candidate will bring a clear, forward-looking vision for the 21st century research library at Lakehead University. They will be an authentic and principled leader who manages people, resources, and systems with sound judgment, transparency, and financial acumen. Collaborative by nature, they will strengthen external relationships, represent the University effectively within sector networks, and advance innovative approaches to teaching, research, and scholarly communication.

The ideal candidate will foster an inclusive, collegial workplace where diverse perspectives are valued, professional growth is encouraged, and barriers to participation are actively addressed. With strong communication skills, emotional intelligence, and a genuine investment in community wellbeing, the University Librarian will cultivate trust, support meaningful reconciliation efforts, and ensure that equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility shape decision‑making. Adaptable and future‑focused, they will inspire others, champion thoughtful change, and position the library as a vital catalyst for learning and research across the University.

Experience and Qualifications

Recognizing that no one candidate is likely to meet all of the following qualifications in equal measure, the points below will be used in the assessment of candidates for the position:

• Graduate degree from an accredited school of library, archival and information science. A PhD would be an asset.
• Leadership experience in library services, ideally within an academic or comparable environment.
• Experience in post-secondary education with an understanding of the role of an academic research library, along with an ability to navigate the changing nature of libraries.
• An understanding of the importance of engagement with Indigenous peoples locally and across Canada, and an ability to build upon the work of the University in this regard.
• Highly developed leadership and motivational skills, with the ability to lead, support and develop a high-functioning team that works collaboratively with colleagues across all academic departments, as well as with external partners.
• Collaborative, consultative and service-oriented management style and a proven ability to lead and manage change.
• Ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of high-level constituents including the University senior management, representatives from external bodies and donors.
• Demonstrable experience in driving digital innovation to support teaching and research.
• High level of professional credibility demonstrated through active involvement in shared service and collaborative projects and initiatives.
• A strong understanding of the importance and value of library and archive collections, including within a consortial environment.

 The salary range for this position is: $102,532 - $152,230 plus an additional $18,000 stipend.

To learn more about this opportunity or to request a copy of the Executive Brief, contact Katherine Frank (kfrank@kbrs.ca) or Lauren Wright (lwright@kbrs.ca). Completed applications can be submitted online at www.kbrs.ca/Career/17660853706630000008ChA

 Please note that this posting is for an existing position at Lakehead University.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

Lakehead University is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals including women, members of racialized groups/visible minorities, Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, and persons of any sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.

Lakehead University is committed to an environment of open access to employment opportunities. KBRS and Lakehead will provide support in the recruitment processes to applicants with disabilities, including accommodation that takes into account an applicant’s accessibility needs. If you require accommodation in order to participate as a candidate in the recruitment process, please contact accommodate@kbrs.ca.