Want to make a difference and work in a sector that is driven by passion and principle? Are you a strategic policy leader with proven skills in stakeholder engagement? Come and work at the Australian Library and Information Association where you will advocate for the essential role of libraries in a thriving democracy. You will join a friendly and engaged team and work with dedicated ALIA members who are experts in their field. You will also work with educators and employers across the sector to ensure there is a pathway for future generations to enter the wonderful world of library and information services.

If you meet some, but not all, of the criteria in the Position Description, we encourage your application. We appreciate that people obtain skills and experience in a range of ways, and value people’s curiosity and openness to learning.

The Director Policy, Education and Research is part of the Executive team and reports to the Chief Executive Officer. The Director manages a team of four people.

The position is offered on a full time 5-year contract basis to applicants working remotely or based in Canberra.

POSITION PURPOSE

Key strategic role in developing and managing ALIA’s policy position, workforce strategy, training portfolio, research program and the accreditation of library and information science courses at diploma, graduate and post graduate level.

RESPONSIBILITIES

· Lead the development of consistent ALIA policy positions and submissions and represent these at forums and events

· Support and inform ALIA’s advocacy program to influence change and grow ALIA’s influence and profile as the national voice for the library and information services sector

· Establish, maintain and enhance effective relationships with key stakeholders across the library and information services sector, the GLAM sector, the book industry and government

· Collaborate with researchers and educators

· Close collaboration with ALIA members to support and coordinate sector policies and guidelines.

· Support ALIA’s Advisory Committees, Sector Committees, Regional Groups and Special Interest Groups

· Maintain and promote the implementation of the LIS Workforce Framework

· Manage the accreditation program for university and TAFE courses

· Development and design of a suite of training programs for members which align with the LIS Framework

· Manage ALIA’s professional recognition process and the CPD scheme

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ATTRIBUTES, EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

Essential

· Excellent understanding of current issues and emerging trends in the library and information services sector in Australia

· High-level written and verbal skills

· Confident public speaker able to represent the organisation in a variety of forums including delivering conference presentations

· Extensive experience in policy development and ability to analyse and translate research findings to create compelling submissions and advice.

· Versatile stakeholder management skills, including the ability to undertake consultations

· Strong people leadership skills, with experience leading small, high-performing teams.

· Demonstrated experience delivering projects and managing programs on time, budget and according to agreed quality criteria.

· Tertiary qualifications in a related field.

Desirable

· High level cultural competency and understanding of First Nations issues

· Library qualifications

Please forward your current CV and a cover letter addressing the position criteria to [email protected] by Monday 18th August 2025.