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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team in delivering top-notch information services to the academic community.
- Company: Join the prestigious Cambridge University Libraries and Archives, home to cultural treasures.
- Benefits: Enjoy 36 days of annual leave, exceptional parental leave, and discounts on major retailers.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by guiding students and academics in a vibrant library environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in team management, customer service, and public speaking is essential.
- Other info: Flexible working environment with professional development opportunities available.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Overview
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 1 year in the first instance. Ever wanted to work in an institution that is home to one of the world's great collections of cultural treasures and research materials? Cambridge has an impressive history of music performance and musicological research and we take pride in our services supporting teaching and research at Cambridge University Libraries and Archives.
The Role
This role is part of the Reader Services division and plays a key part in the information services offered to the academic community of the University Library. The role holder is responsible for contributing to and delivering day-to-day operations within the main Reading Room.
As Research And Information Services Team Leader You Will
- Provide a welcoming point of contact to the Library's readers and visitors.
- Guide and advise a wide range of Cambridge academics, students, and visitors, both in person and remotely, with a dedication to delivering a high standard of customer service.
- Manage six staff within the department and a pool of approximately 15 cover staff.
- Be responsible for contributing to and delivering the day-to-day operations in the main Reading Room.
- Support, maintain, improve and promote the Library's high service standards.
- Demonstrate the ability to be flexible to the changing needs of the service.
- Assist or lead library and information skills activities.
- Assist in the induction, training and supervision of staff; documenting procedures.
What We Are Looking For
- Enthusiasm, flexibility, and a committed approach to the delivery of the highest possible level of customer service.
- Experience with formal line management responsibilities, including the ability to supervise, direct, motivate, and develop team members.
- A proactive approach, comfortable with allocating tasks to colleagues.
- Experience with the recruitment process, including interviewing candidates, training, and reviewing performance.
- Previous experience in devising, delivering, and reviewing induction and training programmes.
- Experience in public speaking to represent the Library to students, academics, and visitors through tours and presentations.
- A positive approach to developing and implementing policies and procedures to ensure an efficient, effective, and world-leading service.
What We Offer
Generous annual leave allowance of 36 days (inclusive of public holidays). Exceptional parental leave (including maternity, paternity / co-parent, adoption and shared parental leave). Discounts on major retailers. Professional development opportunities such as apprenticeships and access to a variety of training courses.
For informal enquiries please contact Rose Giles rfg29@cam.ac.uk 01223 (3)334741. For further details please refer to the Further Particulars. Please quote reference VE48540 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy. The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Research and Information Services Team Leader (Fixed Term) in Cambridge employer: University of Cambridge
Contact Detail:
University of Cambridge Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research and Information Services Team Leader (Fixed Term) in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the University Library on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the Library's services and recent projects. Show us that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their mission and have ideas to enhance their operations.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your public speaking skills! Since this role involves representing the Library, being comfortable speaking to groups will set you apart. Consider joining a local Toastmasters club or similar.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Research and Information Services Team Leader (Fixed Term) in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Enthusiasm: Let your passion for the role shine through in your application. We want to see how excited you are about working with cultural treasures and supporting the academic community at Cambridge. A bit of personality goes a long way!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience, especially in customer service and team management. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your skills and how they align with the role.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key achievements stand out. This helps us quickly see why you’d be a great fit for our team.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need to complete your application smoothly.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Cambridge
✨Know Your Library Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re familiar with the library's services and collections. Research their recent initiatives and how they support the academic community. This will show your genuine interest and help you answer questions more effectively.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a team leader, you'll need to demonstrate your management experience. Prepare examples of how you've successfully supervised and motivated a team in the past. Be ready to discuss your approach to training and developing staff, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Customer Service is Key
Highlight your commitment to delivering excellent customer service. Think of specific instances where you’ve gone above and beyond for users or resolved issues effectively. This will resonate well with the interviewers who value high service standards.
✨Practice Public Speaking
Since the role involves public speaking and representing the library, practice your presentation skills. You might be asked to give a brief talk during the interview, so prepare a short presentation about a relevant topic to showcase your communication abilities.
