Director of Public Services

Kitsap Regional Library•Bremerton, WA

3d•$119,985 - $166,087•Onsite

About The Position

This is a senior management position that serves as a part of the Kitsap Regional Library Leadership Team. Under the general oversight of the Library Director, an incumbent is responsible for the strategic leadership and operational oversight for the Public Services Division, including branch operations, Mobile Services, Patron Experience, and Community Engagement. Reporting to the Library Director, this position is responsible for advancing exceptional customer experiences, ensuring effective service delivery, and supporting organizational goals through collaborative leadership, innovation, and continuous improvement. The Director oversees managers and staff across multiple locations, manages divisional resources, and exercises a high degree of independent judgment in guiding service strategies, operational priorities, and organizational initiatives.

Requirements

Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) or comparable public administration master's degree with equivalent public-sector tenure.
Minimum 5–7 years of progressively responsible public library management experience, with specific exposure to multi-site or county-wide logistical infrastructure.
Extensive experience managing budgets and complex personnel issues in a large library system.
Proven track record as an agent of positive change and strategic execution
Ability to maintain regular and reliable attendance.
Knowledge of the principles and practices of management and demonstrated ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with library staff, the Library Board, library users, Library Friends, library foundation, building owners, community groups, media representatives, vendors, and consultants.
Ability to strategically develop and manage both short and long-term planning efforts.
Knowledge of library financing, fundraising, budgeting, and budget management.
Knowledge of and experience successfully managing and leading projects.
Knowledge of and the ability to apply the principles and practices of supervision, including the ability to select, develop and motivate staff and create a positive team environment.
Knowledge of integrated library systems.
Ability to navigate ambiguity and competing priorities effectively.
Ability to identify and address current and future patron and library needs.
Ability to communicate confidently and effectively verbally and in writing with a diverse patron base and staff, using diplomacy where necessary.
Ability to effectively write and edit a variety of written materials for internal and external publication.
Ability to collaborate across division lines, as well as be an effective advocate for public services issues.
Ability to be a decisive and consistent decision maker. Skilled in utilizing thoughtful analysis, sound judgement, and data-informed decision-making when making such decisions.
Ability to be an effective, active listener.
Ability to effectively demonstrate professional level public speaking and presentation skills before staff special interest groups, funding sources, the news media, and others.
Ability to operate standard office equipment, perform required data entry proficiently and utilize computer software and specialized programs.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement short- and long-range strategic plans for public services and service delivery.
Align divisional priorities with organizational goals and community needs.
Lead operational improvements through data-informed decision-making, change management, and continuous improvement practices.
Manage special projects and strategic initiatives as assigned by the Library Director.
Lead, develop, and support managers and staff to achieve organizational goals and deliver high-quality public service.
Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, inclusion, innovation, and continuous learning.
Provide coaching, mentorship, and professional development opportunities that strengthen leadership capacity and employee engagement.
Model professionalism, ethical conduct, and effective decision-making.
Develop, administer, and monitor assigned budgets.
Evaluate service levels, performance metrics, and operational outcomes to ensure effective stewardship of library resources.
Recommend and implement policies, procedures, and operational standards that support organizational effectiveness.
Interpret, communicate, and implement library policies and administrative procedures.
Ensure compliance with applicable regulations and organizational standards.
Oversee safety and security practices for public-facing operations and collaborate with community partners, property owners, public agencies, and service organizations to maintain safe and welcoming library environments.
Ensure consistent delivery of high-quality customer service across all public service locations and channels.
Support the development and implementation of programs and services that respond to evolving community needs.
Promote service standards that foster welcoming, inclusive, and engaging patron experiences.
Performs other related duties as required.