Associate Director, Board and Member Relations

The Association of Research Libraries (ARL) is an institutional membership organization of 124 libraries and archives in major public and private universities, federal government agencies, and large public institutions in Canada and the United States. Institutions join the Association looking to connect with thought leaders about the future of research and learning, gain access to policy resources and insights, and to become a part of a community that is uniquely aware of the dynamic and shifting role that libraries play in the research enterprise.

Research libraries are evolving quickly in the context of dramatic digital adoption in research and learning, constant flux in higher education, and policy developments in Canada, the United States, and beyond. We advocate on research libraries’ behalf, advance the research and learning mission with our research and higher education partners, share intelligence on current issues, and develop the next generation of diverse library leaders. The Association and its members actively engage nationally and internationally to advance an equitable and enduring research information environment.

Progress on ARL’s 2019–2021 Action Plan, is evidenced by the Association’s contributions as a collaborative partner in a complex ecosystem. This position is responsible for Board planning and administration, member relations, and supporting the executive director in delivering membership value.

Job summary/objective

This position works with the executive director and the associate executive director, Finance and Administration to support Board and member representative needs.

The position works daily with Board members and Association member representatives. Strong customer service orientation and proven success in meeting deadlines in a professional manner is required.

• This position is responsible for organizing and managing meetings, materials, and outreach to the Board and Board committees.
• This position is responsible for supporting member engagement in the work of the Association.

The position contributes to the development of a trusting and inclusive culture that reinforces ARL norms and values including the Code of Conduct.

Essential functions

Board Planning and Administration

• With the ARL president and the executive director, facilitates the development of annual plans for the executive committees and the Board of Directors, and manages plan delivery.
• Monitors issues that require regular Board action, such as annual conflict of interest statements.
• Facilitates agendas and documentation for and after meetings, including scheduling and managing Board meeting logistics, drafting minutes, and managing the Board records.
• Supports the ARL president in Business Meetings. 
• Tracks changes to the ARL Bylaws and Board procedures, to ensure Board compliance. Contracts governance expertise as needed. 
• Serves as staff lead to the Board Governance and Nominations Committees.

Member Relations

• Serves as staff lead to the Member Engagement and Outreach Committee, supporting member orientation to and participation in the work of the Association.
• Supports the executive director as staff lead to the Membership Committee as needed.

Executive Director Support

• Supports the executive director in preparing reports to the Board and members.
• With the executive director and other direct reports of the executive director, evaluates membership value to inform recommendations to the Board. 
• Supports the executive director in the strategic planning process.
• Supports the executive director in planning and managing the Program Strategy Committee.

Required education and experience

• Bachelor’s degree 
• Three or more years experience of board management/governance experience
• Three or more years experience working with members or volunteers
• Experience with parliamentary procedures (preferably Robert’s Rules of Order) 
• Demonstrated organizational, time-management, and problem-solving skills 
• Strong attention to details; active listening, empathy, and communication skills
• Ability to interact effectively with a variety of functions and people, including volunteers, and to work well as part of a team to achieve tasks 

Preferred education and experience

• Graduate degree or certificate in library and information science, higher education administration, or nonprofit management
• Certification in association management (for example, CAE)

Organizational Culture

This is a mission-driven organization that works collaboratively with members, partners, and among the staff to explore, set and achieve agreed to annual goals. The culture encourages in-person and virtual face-to-face communication and knowledge sharing, supported by collaborative technologies. The work environment thrives on a shared set of goals, achieved by goodwill, and an agile, team-based, problem-solving approach.

Recruitment

ARL is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in the professional workplace. The Association is firmly committed to providing opportunity for outstanding persons of every race/ethnicity, gender, creed, and background. Candidates who thrive in an environment that embraces diversity and inclusivity to apply are encouraged to apply.

Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience. ARL offers standard benefits including sick leave, 22 days of vacation, TIAA. Screening of applications will begin immediately.

Applications will continue to be accepted until a candidate is hired. The qualified applicant should submit a letter outlining interest and relevant experience; a résumé; and a list of three references using this application form.

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