Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council,
We are seeking an experienced and forward‑thinking Libraries Development & Resourcing Manager to lead and modernize our statutory library service.
Reporting to the Head of Customer, Bereavement & Registration Services, you will provide strategic direction and leadership for our library service.
Libraries are part of the Economy, Infrastructure and Skills directorate. Our libraries are safe, welcoming spaces that enrich lives and strengthen communities by supporting wellbeing, inspiring creativity, curiosity and connection.
Solihull's Library network consists of 14 libraries, a home library service and a 24 hours digital library.
You will lead specific workstreams and projects which may change over time and be responsible for developing and delivering a variety of activities, initiatives, and events to support the national Universal Offers
You'll also ensure efficient management of financial budgets and resources and will develop and deliver strategies, policies and effective partnerships to improve outcomes for Solihull's residents by inspiring and leading teams, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and value for money
You will be based in central Solihull with the opportunity to work from home subject to business requirements.
About the Role:
You will be required to work effectively in partnership to transform libraries into community hubs while ensuring that the statutory library offer is high quality, legally compliant, reflective of community need and delivers wider council outcomes. You will also
* Lead the development and operation of Solihull's library offer, ensuring compliance with the Public Libraries and Museums Act 1964
* Manage and motivate library staff to deliver statutory Universal Offers.
* Oversee service planning, policy development, performance management and quality assurance.
* Lead budget management, contract management and resource commissioning.
* Manage the Library Management System, digital platforms and public ICT infrastructure.
* Represent Solihull regionally and nationally and deputise for the Head of Service.
About You:
* Chartered Librarian or relevant post graduate qualification, plus degree‑level education or able to demonstrate significant experience in Librarianship or related field.
* Significant experience of leading library services in a local authority.
* Strong leadership and staff management skills.
* Experience managing budgets, contracts, service plans and performance frameworks.
* Excellent communication, analytical and IT skills.
* A valid driving licence and access to a vehicle, to enable you to move around sites across the Borough.
If this sounds like a good match to your skills, we look forward to hearing from you. In return we can offer you an exciting and diverse role which is rewarded with a competitive salary and benefits package. This includes a range of flexible working options, an extensive wellbeing offer, staff discounts and access to the Local Government pension scheme.
Additional Information
To apply, please click on the link below. Your application should be in your own words and reflect your own personal experiences.
If you have a specific question regarding this post, please contact Kate Bunting, Strategic Lead – Culture at kate.,
Closing date: 10th March 2026
Shortlisted applicants will be required to undertake psychometric tests as part of the selection process. Successful applicants will then be invited to interview on 20th or 24th March 2026
We are committed to safeguarding, equality, inclusion and supporting staff development. This is a key role with real opportunity to shape and improve Solihull's library services.
This post is covered by the Fluency Duty, as outlined in the Code of Practice on the English language requirements for public sector workers.
Solihull Council is proud to be an Equal Opportunities Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees - a place where we can all be ourselves and succeed on merit.
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