At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to deliver top-notch library enquiry services and manage literature searches.
- Company: Join the Welsh Government's Knowledge and Library Service, promoting equality and diversity.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Other info: Flexible recruitment process that values diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in policy and legislation while managing a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: Experience in library services and team management is essential.
The predicted salary is between 33000 - 42000 £ per year.
The Welsh Government’s Knowledge and Library Service provides information and research services to policy and legal teams based in multiple locations. The library collection comprises print and digital resources supporting the development of policy and legislation in Wales and includes the official publications archive. The Library’s print collection is held in Cardiff although most services such as training, literature searching and enquiries are provided remotely.
Following a retirement in the Welsh Government Knowledge & Library Services team, we are seeking an Enquiry Services Manager to deliver services to Welsh Government’s policy and legal teams. The post currently line‑manages three librarians and task manages other team members, so experience of leading teams is essential. You’ll be working alongside two other team leaders to allocate and share resources and prioritise work.
Reporting to the Head of Knowledge & Library Services, you’ll have day‑to‑day responsibility for managing the literature search and enquiry services and helping develop these to meet changing needs. You’ll ensure customer satisfaction through effective monitoring of feedback and identify areas for improvement. You’ll also be involved in helping develop and define our training offering. As a subject‑matter expert, you’ll provide professional advice to support the Head of Knowledge and Library Services and the Chief Librarian.
Key Tasks
- Line and task management of librarians (EO) and library assistants.
- Advice, support and training to the information professionals undertaking literature searches to ensure that standards are met and maintained.
- Manage and develop the literature search service, including allocation of work, setting deadlines, and quality checking.
- Collection and analysis of statistics relating to customer experience and service delivery to inform developments.
- Manage the general enquiry service by maintaining staffing levels and developing mechanisms for knowledge sharing.
- Engagement with stakeholders, suppliers and professional groups.
- Maintain an awareness of legislative developments as they relate to information and library management, including copyright, Re‑use of Public Sector Information (RPSI), FoI Publication Scheme requirements and copyright.
Requirements and Experience
- Experience of providing information retrieval or enquiry services in a library or information service.
- Demonstrated ability to deliver services that meet organisational needs.
- Knowledge and experience of the policy and legal environment in which the Welsh Government operates.
- Experience of line and task management of a small team of librarians.
- Degree or postgraduate qualification in librarianship, information studies or information management.
Welsh Language Requirements
Welsh language skills are not essential for this post, but they are desirable and will be considered if two or more candidates receive the same score at the application or interview stage.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Welsh Government values equality, diversity and inclusion and is committed to a flexible and fair recruitment process for all candidates.
Library Enquiry Services Manager - HEO in Cardiff employer: Llywodraeth Cymru / Welsh Government
The Welsh Government is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that champions equality, diversity, and inclusion. As a Library Enquiry Services Manager, you will benefit from a supportive culture that prioritises professional development and collaboration, while working remotely with a dedicated team to enhance library services for policy and legal teams. With a commitment to continuous improvement and stakeholder engagement, this role provides a meaningful opportunity to contribute to the development of policy and legislation in Wales.
Contact Details:
Llywodraeth Cymru / Welsh Government Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Library Enquiry Services Manager - HEO in Cardiff
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees in the Welsh Government or similar organisations. A friendly chat can give us insider info on what they look for in candidates and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the Welsh Government’s recent projects and initiatives. We want to show that we’re not just interested in the role, but also in how we can contribute to their mission and values.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get a friend to do a mock interview with us. This will help us articulate our experience and skills confidently, especially when discussing our management style and customer service approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after the interview! A quick thank-you email reiterating our enthusiasm for the role can leave a lasting impression. Plus, it shows we’re proactive and genuinely interested in the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Library Enquiry Services Manager - HEO in Cardiff
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Library Enquiry Services Manager. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this role involves managing a team, be sure to include examples of your leadership experience. Talk about how you've successfully led teams in the past and how you can bring that expertise to our library services.
Demonstrate Your Knowledge:We want to see that you have a solid understanding of the policy and legal environment in which we operate. Share any relevant experiences or insights that demonstrate your familiarity with these areas.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Llywodraeth Cymru / Welsh Government
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the Welsh Government's policies and the legal environment they operate in. Familiarise yourself with their library services and how they support policy development. This will show that you're not just interested in the role, but also in the organisation's mission.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves managing a team, be ready to discuss your experience in leading and task-managing others. Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, focusing on how you allocated resources and ensured quality service delivery.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you would engage with various stakeholders and professional groups. Be prepared to share your ideas on how to maintain effective communication and collaboration, as this is key to delivering successful enquiry services.
✨Feedback is Key
Demonstrate your understanding of the importance of customer feedback in improving services. Have examples ready of how you've collected and analysed feedback in previous roles, and how you've used that information to make positive changes.
