Director: Research & Learning at University of Cape Town

• UCT Libraries seeks to appoint a suitably qualified and experienced senior library and information professional to the position of Director: Research & Learning Services.
• As a member of the UCT Libraries Directorate, the incumbent provides strategic leadership to the Research and Learning Section to advance its role in facilitating world-class access to knowledge and services as a partner to teaching, learning, and research at the University of Cape Town.

Requirements:

• Appropriate NQF Level 9 qualification in library and information science
• 15-20 years’ experience with at least 10 years of line management experience in an academic library at a research-intensive academic or research-related environment.
• In-depth knowledge and comprehensive understanding of the LIS discipline at national and international levels
• Awareness of the higher education and research landscape, including current trends, challenges, and opportunities in the global and African higher education sectors.
• Familiarity with research support and learning services, covering the entire research lifecycle, bibliometrics, research impact assessment, academic integrity, and teaching & learning support services. This includes scholarly communication and publishing, digital libraries, emerging technologies, and traditional academic library services.
• Record of scholarship or professional service in the field of academic librarianship
• Experience in leveraging cutting-edge technology to optimise service delivery and operational efficiency. This involves using digital tools and platforms to create impactful strategic outcomes, thereby enhancing the organization’s overall effectiveness and innovation capacity.
• Registration with the national LIS professional body, LIASA

Advantages:

• Experience with University publishing, such as a university press or open-access publishing.

 Responsibilities include:

• Strategic leadership of the Research and Learning Section
• Innovation and Service Transformation
• Library leadership, strategic planning, financial management, and policy development
• Leadership development and talent management
• Academic publishing
• External engagement and partnerships
• Management of Special Projects

Closing date: 26 July 2026