LEADS from LLAMA

Executive Director
Library Administration and Management Association
A division of the American Library Association
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The Library Administration & Management Association (LAMA), a division of the American Library Association, seeks a dynamic Executive Director to lead and promote a 5,000-member organization. The new Executive Director will oversee an organization that has as its mission, to encourage and nurture current and future library leaders, and to develop and promote outstanding leadership and management practices. Since its establishment in 1957, LAMA has been a powerful catalyst in the development of leadership in the library and information science field. Attuned to ever-changing technological, economic, political and cultural conditions, LAMA equips library professionals with dynamic tools for building vibrant library services in all types of libraries and successful careers. The LAMA Executive Director will play a key role in helping LAMA to grow financially, continue to develop strong programs, embrace new initiatives, create partnerships and collaborations with outside organizations, and be responsive to member needs.

This senior management position has overall responsibility for the operational and fiscal management (revenue-based budget) of LAMA, under the general supervision of the Senior Associate Executive Director, ALA, and a rotating, elected Board of Directors. The executive director facilitates and directs the support of the work of volunteers in 7 sections, 20 committees and task forces, a wide range of discussion/interest groups, and the Council of LAMA Affiliates, by providing counsel, advice, direction and staff support for their ideas and plans. LAMA publishes an electronic journal (LA&M) and e-newsletter. Primary responsibilities include resource development, budgeting, marketing and outreach. LAMA is known for its continuing education programs, including a regional institute series, pre-conference and ALA Annual Conference programs; therefore, oversight of the marketing, support and delivery of these educational programs is also a primary responsibility. Additional duties include administration of LAMA’s vibrant awards programs and active publishing program.

The LAMA Executive Director also serves as an ALA program director; is also responsible for advising on ALA plans and program, making recommendations on priorities; programs and other issues meeting regularly with ALA managers and communicating, cooperating and coordinating LAMA activities with other ALA units. The LAMA Executive Director represents and advocates for LAMA and its members within ALA and may represent the association to external agencies. This position supervises one professional position. The LAMA Board and members seek to grow the organization through membership recruitment and retention, regional and national institutes, conference activities and publications.

Qualifications: Three to five years demonstrated dynamic leadership in libraries, public service organizations and/or association management. Required skills include strategic planning, board and organizational development, marketing, fiscal and program/project management. Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills and demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with members, funders, vendors and staff. Ability to handle multiple tasks and priorities, meet deadlines, and keep projects on track and work in a rapidly changing environment. Proven supervisory success and/or aptitude. Experience in developing and managing entrepreneurial projects, publications, public relations, and fund-raising (partnerships, sponsorships, and endowments) are highly desirable. Master’s degree from an ALA –recognized library education program is preferred, but a graduate degree in nonprofit management or other relevant field will be considered.

Closing Date: April 30, 2007 or position is filled.

ALA offers an excellent benefits package including medical/dental insurance, retirement annuity and paid vacation. Relocation expenses are negotiable. Posted March 15, 2007

For consideration, send a letter of application, resume, and names of three references to:
American Library Association
Human Resources Department
Ref: ED/LAMA
40 E. Huron Street
Chicago, IL 60611
Fax: 312.280.5270
Email: dragsdal@ala.org

The American Library Association is an equal opportunity employer. Applications are invited from women, minorities, and people with disabilities.

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