POSITION PROFILE
Executive Director
PREPARED BY
C. Michael King, SPHR
, 4701 East State Street Rockford, IL 61108
( 815-‐961-‐0500
4 815-‐961-‐9539
*
[email protected]
TABLE OF CONTENTS I. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY…………………………………………………………………3
II. THE CLIENT…………………………………………………………………………………4 • • • • • •
Mission Guiding Principles and Values Vision Overview Year to Date Statistics Facilities
III. POSITION OVERVIEW.……………………………………………………………....7 • Reporting Relationships • Position Purpose • Activities Aimed at Achieving the Position Purpose • Competencies, Experience and Characteristics IV. OBSTACLES & SUCCESS FACTORS ……………………….…………………….9 • •
Obstacles Success Factors
V. THE OPPORTUNITY …………………………………………………………………...10 • •
Why would someone want this job? Compensation
VI. THE COMMUNITY……………………………………………………………………..10 • • • • •
Overview Education Culture Recreation Healthcare
VII. CONTACT ………………………………………………………………………………..12
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______________________________________________________________________________ I. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY • • • •
Play a key role in the re-‐birth of the Rockford Public Library during a time of transformation in our community Be a positive change agent for a library that is undergoing a major building project Make your mark as a leader at a progressive and forward-‐thinking library Contribute to the future viability of the region
The Rockford Public Library’s mission is to educate, inform, entertain and culturally enrich the people of our community. We are a customer-‐driven organization whose employees are committed to providing superior customer service to all library users. In the past year, 104 dedicated staff welcomed 263,920 visitors circulating 476,092 items. The library currently operates on an $8.4 million budget and serves the community with seven branch locations. Rockford is a community with a rich history and the promise of an extraordinary future. The city of Rockford is home to over 150,000 citizens and there are approximately 339,000 in the metro area. Uniquely situated between the metropolitan communities of Chicago, Milwaukee, and Madison, Rockford is the best of both worlds—a thriving “big, small-‐town community,” and also within easy driving distance of the attractions one might find in much larger cities. We offer a position in which you can find limitless reward as you work collaboratively toward positively impacting literacy in our community. The next Executive Director will leverage his/her strengths to produce the following results: . . . your success in leading organizations to excellence will further the performance of the Rockford Public Library . . . your ability to clearly define an organizational vision and implement a strategic plan will set the foundation for future success . . . your success in guiding building projects will enhance the physical infrastructure of the library . . . your ability to build an open and positive staff culture that seeks input and consensus will drive employee satisfaction and performance . . . your demonstrated ability to collaborate and develop meaningful relationships will ensure the Rockford Public Library is known and respected in the community . . . your progressive and forward thinking financial acumen will ensure continued financial stability for the organization . . . your technological savvy will guide the library into new service opportunities
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. . . your success in determining library service needs will ensure that the library stays relevant, utilized, and effective at building literacy in our community We seek a leader that is innovative, a problem solver, an excellent communicator, a connecter of people, and able to lead change. The ideal candidate will have a history of progressive responsibility. Bachelor’s degree required. Master’s degree in Library Science/Information Studies from an ALA-‐accredited institution preferred. ______________________________________________________________________________ II. THE CLIENT
Mission The mission of the Rockford Public Library is to educate, inform, entertain and culturally enrich the people of our community.
Guiding Principles and Values The Rockford Public Library guides its daily work internally and externally through the following seven principles: Understanding: We base what we do on the current and evolving needs of our community Commitment: We recruit, hire, and reward staff committed to excellence Empowerment: We will strive to be committed to staff development and empowerment Respect: We are committed to fair, honest and respectful treatment of all individuals Community: We affirm the value of humor and community in the workplace Service: We are committed to providing outstanding service to our users, community partners and one another in all areas Stewardship: We continuously improve our service through responsible and transparent stewardship of our resources
Vision To be a leader in transforming our community Overview The Rockford Public Library is a customer-‐driven organization whose employees are committed to providing superior customer service to all library users. It is a historically rich institution in the community and is currently in a time of rebirth. The library’s financial standing is strong. There are 104 employees at the library. The library is in their second year of a three-‐year contract with AFSCME. Recent surveys have indicated strong community satisfaction with the library staff.
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The biggest issue facing the library is contamination under their main branch, which will require a major facilities overhaul. Remediation expense and associated construction costs are to be born by the local electricity provider (Commonwealth Edison). The new Executive Director will play a critical role in concluding the negotiations with ComEd and overseeing the building project. Year to Date Statistics (April 2014) Physical Collection Circulation: 412,203 Digital Collection Circulation: 60,769 Total e-‐Reader Circulation: 3,120 Customer Count: 263,920 Computer Use and Wi-‐Fi Access: 67,251 Active Cardholders: 45,953 Total Program In House and Outreach Attendance: 16,009 Reference Requests: 51,784 Total Existing Physical Collection: 597,035 Total Digital Collection (purchased): 183,038 Facilities Main Branch: Located on the western bank of the beautiful Rock River in the heart of Rockford's downtown River District, the original Carnegie building was opened in 1903 and continues to be a cornerstone of the Rockford community. The Main Library hosts a vast collection of books, books on tape, magazines, CDs, DVDs, videos and software. Over 20 public Internet and word processing computers are available to the public. In addition to reference resources, the Library subscribes to dozens of databases that can assist Library customers in researching topics ranging from medical information and authors to current events and history. Each year, the Adult Services and Youth Services Departments host a wide-‐range of programs for kids, families and adults, including: book discussion groups, author visits, story times, workshops, musical entertainment and other events. The Main Library's Local History and Genealogy Room located on the third floor is a popular destination for people doing genealogy and Rockford area research. The Main Library is also home to a Friends of RPL book shop.
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Montague: The Montague Branch Library officially opened on May 24, 1923 and is the library's oldest existing branch library facility. The two-‐story brick building is located at the corner of Winnebago and Montague Streets. The Montague Branch is a 10,000 sq. ft. brick, Spanish Renaissance-‐style building. In April 2001, the branch underwent an extensive expansion and renovation project. The addition of the Constance V. Lane community room, a new wireless computer area, and a children's space with storytelling area doubled the size of the facility from 5,000 sq. ft. to 10,000 sq. ft. Many of the original oak bookcases and the fireplace were restored as part of the project. In addition to its regular collection, the branch houses an extensive assortment of Spanish books, magazines and newspapers reflecting the neighborhood it serves. Rockton Centre: The Rockton Centre Branch Library serves Rockford's northwest community. The branch's collection focuses on topics and formats appropriate for older adults. This branch has one of the largest large print book collections of the branches. Free Internet and word processing services are also available. East: Located in the former Barnes & Noble building on East State St. The new East Branch offers a 65-‐seat meeting room, free Wi-‐Fi, quiet study rooms, special areas for children and adults, and an expanded collection of books and media, as well as a Friends of RPL book shop. Rock River: This branch moved to its present location in 1998 and is the library’s second largest branch facility in terms of square footage. Rock River Branch Library provides popular materials in a wide variety of topics and formats. This branch specializes in materials for job searches and career development and provides programs and story times for children and adults. Free Internet and word processing services are also available. Lewis Lemon: The Lewis Lemon Branch Library opened in 1994 and is located inside the Lewis Lemon Global Academy. One of the newest and smallest, the branch is a collaborative partnership with Rockford Public Schools, Rockford Park District and the YMCA. The collection features current and topical material in a variety of formats with a special focus on African-‐Americans. Programming is done in collaboration with other school-‐based organizations and other Rockford Public Library facilities. Free Internet and word processing services are also available at this branch. Nordlof Center: Rockford’s newest cultural, arts and community resource. Located at 118 N. Main St., Rockford, the 30,000-‐square-‐foot facility provides a multi-‐use performance and classroom venue for the region’s performing arts and technology training needs. The entire building is equipped with high-‐speed Internet and Wi-‐Fi access. The 280-‐seat J.R. Sullivan Theater, multiple meeting and classrooms and the state-‐of-‐the-‐art Walmart Computer Classroom make this facility a community asset.
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_________________________________________________________________________________ III. POSITION OVERVIEW Reporting Relationships Reports to:
Board of Trustees
Direct reports: Assistant Director; Personnel Officer; Chief Financial Officer; Manager, IT/Collection Management Services; Manager, Facilities; Manager, Nordlof Center; Community Relations Officer; Development Officer; Administrative Secretary Position Purpose To provide leadership and direction for the Rockford Public Library; to effectively implement the mission, strategic goals and objectives set by the Board of Trustees; to act as a steward of taxpayer funds; and to ensure that the library has a strong presence in the community. Activities Aimed at Achieving the Position Purpose Strategic Planning: • Work with the Board of Trustees to clearly define a vision for the Rockford Public Library and develop procedures to ensure the vision is implemented • Develop strategic plans to support the organization mission, goals and objectives • Develop and implement evaluations of program goals and objectives • Provide insight and recommendations at Board and Board Committee meetings; conduct orientation for new board members • Review and approve annual reports, surveys, and grant proposals Fiscal Management: • Maintain strong financial stability • Develop an annual budget for review and approval by the Board of Trustees • Project costs to meet future service needs • Provide leadership in major expenditure decisions • Authorize specifications, bidding, vendor interviews, contract negotiation and approve orders for major equipment and services for library programs and building maintenance • Manage financial affairs by ensuring proper appropriation of funds Operations, Programs, and Services: • Determine library service needs and make proposals and recommendations to the library Board of Trustees • Develop procedures to implement the policies approved by the Board of Trustees • Establish service goals and objectives; design and review statistical progress measurements to determine the effectiveness of such services • Direct programs to provide library services • Respond to complaints or suggestions from users; resolve questions and conflicts if they are not settled by other staff members
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Review literature Understand, interpret and ensure the library is in compliance with laws, statutes and government rules and regulations Assist members of the public in a welcoming and helpful manner, demonstrating excellent customer service at all times
Public-‐Relations and Community Engagement: • Ensure that the library has a significant, positive identity in the community • Manage all public and media communications and attract new patrons to the library • Engage in media interviews and public speaking opportunities with community groups to promote library services to the community • Develop ideas and programs to engage at-‐risk youth and underserved populations • Use the library, literacy, and books to help create civic action and awareness • Develop and implement strategies to provide outreach to neighborhoods and residents Collaboration: • Collaborate with public and private partners to support efforts that address our communities deficiencies • Develop a plan and leverage other agencies to promote library services and programs • Confer with city officials and other departments in matters of mutual interest • Collaborate with the Rockford Public School District to increase youth usage of the library and website resources • Establish and maintain a co-‐location relationship with Rock Valley College • Direct library participation in regional and state-‐wide programs of interlibrary cooperation Labor Relations: • Lead, direct and review the performance of library staff • Develop, implement, and maintain personnel policies and practices • Establish team-‐based, positive relationship with AFSCME • Build an open and positive culture that seeks input, collaboration, and consensus with the staff • Lead or assist with contract negotiations • Appoint and direct staff committees, prescribe their charge and approve reports Infrastructure: • Create and implement a facilities strategic plan • Define and evaluate locations and physical requirements for library facilities; report and make recommendations to the library Board of Trustees • Provide assistance, as needed, with security and safety concerns of the library and its properties • Oversee the implementation of approved projects Technology: • Develop vision and plan to meet future technology needs • Implement programs to increase usage of digital resources
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Drive website and social media usage and effectiveness Seek ways to reduce the non-‐used portion of the paper collection
Other Responsibilities • The Executive Director shall perform other duties as assigned by the Board of Trustees Competencies, Experience and Characteristics • Strong leadership strengths and presence • Visionary and innovative • Proven ability to organize and execute ideas, strategies and plans • Effective collaboration and communication skills • Strong computer, social media and technology knowledge • Effective in building, growing and maintaining relationships • Change management experience • Experience with building projects a major plus • Experience with labor relations a plus • Must live in or relocate to Rockford, IL • Four to ten years of progressive responsibility • Bachelor’s Degree required; Master’s degree in Library Science/Information Studies from an ALA-‐accredited institution preferred. _________________________________________________________________________________ IV. OBSTACLES AND SUCCESS FACTORS The Rockford Public Library Board of Trustees has identified the following obstacles to success that the incumbent may face: • There is an over-‐reliance on property tax income (and a decreasing tax base) to support the financial stability of the library • Resistance to change and strong, vocal, and opposing opinions about the direction the library should go, both internal (staff) and external (community perception) • Major infrastructure strategy and building projects in the near future • Labor relations, contract negotiations and appropriate staffing Within eighteen months, the successful incumbent will be able to demonstrate the following: • Has established a significant, positive identity in the community • Key community relationships and partnerships formed • Recognizes and understands the key issues in our community • Serving on at least one community/civic board • Increased awareness and positive publicity of the library • Increased community buy-‐in • Established a solid relationship with the staff • Reduced operating budgets so that no tax increase was necessary
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Tripled the number of Facebook likes for the library Increased usage of the website by 30% Reduced the non-‐used portion of the paper collection by 50% Developed a facilities strategic plan Successfully concluded the negotiation with ComEd that resulted in sufficient funds to build a new downtown facility • Downtown facility is located, designed and under construction ______________________________________________________________________________ V. THE OPPORTUNITY • • • • •
Why would an individual pursue this opportunity? • Play a key role in the re-‐birth of the Rockford Public Library in a time of transformation in our community • Be a positive change agent for a library that is undergoing a major building project • Make your mark as a leader at a progressive and forward-‐thinking library • Contribute to the future viability of the region • The Board of Trustees supports change initiatives that are futuristic, progressive and visionary • There is a foundation of strong community support for the library’s staff and services; a recent independent report indicated that there is 98% patron satisfaction with the library staff • The library is financially stable Compensation The compensation package will consist of a competitive base salary and additional benefits. The Rockford Public Library offers health, life, deferred compensation, vacation, holidays, sick time, and personal time off. You will also participate in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF). In addition, the board will provide a budget for networking and community involvement. The Rockford Public Library will assist with the relocation expenses for a selected candidate who does not live in Rockford, IL. ______________________________________________________________________________ VI. THE COMMUNITY
Overview Rockford is a community with a rich history and the promise of an extraordinary future. Rockford, the largest city in the region, is home to over 150,000 citizens. There are about 339,000 in the metro area. Uniquely situated between the metropolitan communities of Chicago, Milwaukee, and Madison, Rockford is the best of both worlds—a thriving “big, small-‐town community,” and also
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within easy driving distance of the attractions one might find in much larger cities. Please view www.transformrockford.org to learn of the broad effort underway to redefine the region.
Education The Rock River Region is served by several public school districts, a private Montessori academy, as well as many church-‐sponsored and secular private schools. The Rockford Public School District 205 is one of the regional organizations going through positive, transformative change. The community has largely embraced a new leader that has instituted programs and a positive culture that have the town excited about the future. Post-‐secondary studies are available at Rock Valley College, Rockford University, and Northern Illinois University. Recreation • Parks: The Rockford Park District is one of the area’s “crown jewels,” with numerous facilities for both outdoor and indoor recreation. Among the highlights include Magic Waters Waterpark and the Nicholas Conservatory. The Rock River Valley is home to Rock Cut State Park and there are also several nationally renowned gardens, including Anderson Japanese Gardens and Klehm Arboretum and Botanical Garden. • Sports and Entertainment: Rockford is home to several professional athletic teams. Most notable is the Rockford Ice Hogs, the top affiliate of the 2010 and 2013 Stanley Cup champions, the Chicago Blackhawks. The Rockford Aviators, a professional baseball team, and the Rockford Ski Broncs, a waterskiing team who make their home on the beautiful Rock River, are also significant attractions in our area.
Culture • Food and Festivals: Rockford’s downtown streets come alive in the spring, summer and fall. City Market features local growers and vendors who sell natural products and unique retail items, live music, demonstrations and kids' activities. Friday Night Flix showcase family friendly movies in downtown Davis Park. • Music: Rockford is home to the nationally known Kantorei Boys Choir and Phantom Regiment Drum and Bugle Corp, the Mendelssohn Chorale, the Community Concert series, and many others. The Rockford Symphony Orchestra, founded in 1934 and housed at the beautifully renovated Coronado Performing Arts Center, is one of the area’s leading cultural institutions. • Art: The Rockford Art Museum houses a large art collection. Rockford ArtScene, a twice-‐yearly event featuring local artists, and First Fridays, a once a month downtown event, provide a wonderful venue to stroll the city, visit local restaurants and businesses, and witness the thriving “underground” art community at work. • Theater and Dance: Rock Valley College is host to two of the regions greatest entertainment venues, Starlight and Studio Theatres. The Rockford Dance Company was founded in 1973, and now performs at the Coronado Performing Arts Center.
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Museums: Rockford is home to Burpee Museum of Natural History; The Discovery Center Museum, which was recently named a Top 12 Children’s Museum by Forbes; Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum; and Midway Village, which features both a museum of local history and an actual village of 26 structures from the turn of the 19th century. Religion: More than 160 churches and temples offer spiritual and education assistance to various religious faiths. All major religions in the world are represented in the region.
Healthcare With three nationally recognized health systems (Swedish American, OSF Saint Anthony, and Rockford Health System), the Rock River Valley is a hub for best-‐in-‐class healthcare. In addition, the region is home to a great number of private clinics, nutritional centers, and fitness clubs. ______________________________________________________________________________ VII. CONTACT INFORMATION For 25 years, we have honed our skills as a multi-‐industry executive search firm. We excel at finding, assessing and selecting high-‐performing professional, top-‐level management and C-‐ level executives in both the public and private sector. Our firm is committed to understanding the specific human capital needs of every client and the unique talents of each candidate. We are recognized for high standards in both performance and integrity. In both 2010 and 2012 we were listed as one of the Ten Most Dependable Staffing and Executive Search Firms in the Midwest by Forbes Magazine. We also were listed in Fortune Magazine as one of the Top Staffing and Executive Search Firms in 2008. We are committed to professionalism and candidate confidentiality. For additional information on this search please contact: C. Michael King, SPHR 4701 East State Street Rockford, IL 61108 E-‐mail:
[email protected] Office: 815-‐961-‐0500
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