Job description
Job Type: Full time
Job Number: JR102388
Department:
University Libraries
Job Summary:
The University of Mississippi invites nominations and applications for the position of Dean of University Libraries. Reporting to the Provost, the Dean serves as the chief academic and administrative officer for the Libraries, providing strategic vision, leadership, and advocacy in support of the University’s research, teaching, and service mission.
This is a rare opportunity to lead a nimble, growing R1 library with strong institutional support and significant opportunity for impact. The next Dean will help shape not only the future of the Libraries, but also the trajectory of research, teaching, and learning across campus. The University of Mississippi is a Carnegie R1 institution with enrollment exceeding 24,000 students.
The University Libraries, including the J.D. Williams Library, Science Library, and Archives and Special Collections, play a central role in advancing research, student success, and academic excellence.
The University seeks a forward-thinking, collaborative leader who can articulate a compelling vision for the future of academic Libraries and position the Libraries as an essential partner in building and sustaining the University’s research enterprise, student engagement initiatives, and long-term institutional success.
The Dean will lead a dynamic organization committed to library innovation, emerging research and instruction initiatives, special collections support, and new technologies that enhance access and engagement.
Job Description:
- Lead strategic planning, budgeting, and organizational development
- Advocate for resources and enhance the Libraries’ role in research and academic success
- Provide visionary leadership for the future of the University Libraries within a rapidly evolving higher education and research environment
- Lead and support strategic growth in research services, digital scholarship, archives, collections, and student-centered library initiatives
- Foster a collaborative and ethical culture grounded in transparent communication, professional integrity, accountability, and shared governance
- Develop and strengthen relationships with faculty, university leadership, alumni, donors, Friends of the Library, and external partners
- Support fundraising, development efforts, grant opportunities, and external partnerships that advance the mission of the Libraries
- Ensure the Libraries remain responsive to evolving research, teaching, and learning needs while maintaining excellence in collections stewardship and access
Join the Ole Miss Family – Build Your Legacy Here!
Job Responsibilities:
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
- MLS/MLIS from an ALA-accredited program (or equivalent)
- Significant leadership experience in an academic research library
Preferred Qualifications
- Additional advanced degree
- Experience at an R1 or R2 institution
- Demonstrated success in strategic leadership, organizational management, budgeting, and leading organizational change within an academic or research library environment
- Ability to articulate and implement a collaborative vision for the future of academic Libraries, including innovation in research support, digital services, and emerging technologies
- Proven success in fundraising, donor engagement, and external partnership development in support of library or institutional priorities
Why Join the University of Mississippi Libraries?
The University of Mississippi Libraries are uniquely positioned for transformational growth and innovation. The Libraries combine the agility and entrepreneurial spirit of a growing institution with the visibility and impact of a Carnegie R1 university. The next Dean will have the opportunity to:
- Shape the future of a rapidly evolving research library
- Expand research support and digital initiatives
- Help define the “library of tomorrow” at a major public university
- Collaborate closely with supportive university leadership and campus partners
- Build strategic partnerships with alumni, donors, and external stakeholders
- Lead an organization with strong potential for growth in services, collections, and institutional impact
Education Qualifications:
MLIS: Library and Information Science, MLS: Library Science
Experience:
Relevant experience
Interview Requirement:
Interview Requirements: Any candidate who is called for an interview must notify the Department of Equal Opportunity/Regulatory Compliance in writing of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.
EEO Statement:
The University of Mississippi provides equal opportunity in any employment practice, education program, or education activity to all qualified persons. The University complies with all applicable laws regarding equal opportunity and affirmative action and does not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based upon race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, citizenship, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or genetic information.
Background Check Statement:
The University of Mississippi is committed to providing a safe campus community. UM conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.
How to apply
Application Information
This is a 12-month position with salary commensurate with experience and qualifications. Applicants should submit a letter outlining their interest in the position, relevant background, and qualifications for the role, along with a curriculum vitae at: https://jobs.olemiss.edu
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
