Assistant Executive Director of Library Operations - Riverside County, CA

The Assistant Executive Director of Library Operations serves as a Senior Leader for the Riverside County Library System and acts as a key partner to the Executive Director.This role provides high-level operational leadership, staff mentorship, and strategic support to ensure vibrant, responsive libraries that inspire both staff and community members.The Assistant Executive Director helps translate vision into action, strengthens organizational culture, and ensures consistent service excellence across the system. This position requires frequent travel (approximately 60–70%) to library locations, clients, and community partners.Leadership & Strategic SupportPartner with the Executive Director and stakeholders to support implementation of the long-range vision for RCLS aligned with community prioritiesLead execution and ongoing evaluation of the Strategic Plan; integrate strategic goals into operations, budgeting, and staff work plansSupport future strategic planning efforts and facilitate systemwide alignmentProvide leadership and direction to senior and branch-level managers in delivering relevant, engaging servicesStay current on library and leadership best practices and help implement innovative service modelsOrganizational Culture & Talent DevelopmentSupport systemwide retention, engagement, succession planning, and leadership developmentMentor managers and emerging leaders; help build leadership capacity at all levelsPromote a culture of exceptional customer service, accountability, and continuous improvementFoster collaboration, transparency, and cross-departmental communicationServe as a visible, accessible leader who builds trust and rapport across the organizationOperational & Financial LeadershipOversee day-to-day operational performance across library locations in alignment with strategic prioritiesPartner in development and oversight of operating and collections budgets; monitor financial performance and resource utilizationSupport pursuit of grants, partnerships, and supplemental funding opportunitiesBuild relationships with Friends of the Library groups and support the growth of the Library FoundationCommunity & Partner EngagementRepresent the Library at community meetings, partner events, and public forums as assignedSupport relationship management with local officials, community leaders, and stakeholder organizationsPromote the Library's role in education, literacy, and lifelong learningCollaborate with marketing and communications teams to increase visibility and community engagementAdministration & System PerformanceSupport operational management of RCLS to ensure alignment with mission, strategy, and contractual expectationsDevelop and monitor procedures, quality standards, and performance indicatorsUtilize LibraryIQ tools and data analytics to assess services, collections, and community impactEnsure collections remain responsive to community needsSupport compliance with local, state, and federal regulations and library best practicesAssist in preparation of annual reports and partner briefingsSupport internal communication strategies to keep staff informed, aligned, and engagedProvide leadership oversight for the Edward Dean Museum and Gardens as assignedPartner Relationship ManagementMaintain strong working relationships with Riverside County partners and stakeholdersServe as a secondary point of escalation for partner and patron concernsSupport preparation of reports and performance updates for County partnersHelp ensure RCLS meets contractual scope of work and service expectationsQualificationsMaster's degree in library science or library and information studies (MLS/MLIS required)3+ years of senior management experience in library or related public service environmentsDemonstrated success leading managers, coaching teams, and driving organizational performanceExperience working with government or contracted service environments preferredStrong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build trust and engagementCollaborative leader who fosters teamwork and alignmentStrategic thinker with the ability to execute and drive resultsCustomer-focused with a commitment to service excellenceSkilled in financial and operational data analysisProven ability to thrive in a complex, fast-paced environmentRequirementsFrequent travel to library locations, community meetings, and partner sitesAvailability for evening and weekend meetings and community eventsOn-call availability for urgent or emergency operational situationsStrong written and verbal communication skillsExcellent organizational and time management skillsAbility to work both independently and collaborativelyHigh level of reliability and professional accountabilityMust maintain a reliable source of personal transportationMust reside in Riverside County, CA, or within a 25-mile radiusCompensation: $135,000 - $150,000 annually#J-18808-Ljbffr