Director, Digital Technologies and Services, University Libraries

Director, Digital Technologies and Services, University Libraries

Company: George Mason University Location: Fairfax, VA (Hybrid Eligible) Work Model: Hybrid (up to 2 telework days) Contract: Permanent Salary: $95,000 - $115,000 per year

George Mason University Libraries seeks a visionary leader to direct its Digital Technologies and Services (DTS) division. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the technological landscape of a major public research university, ensuring seamless access to information and fostering innovation in library services.

About the Department

The University Libraries are dedicated to fostering innovation, creativity, and imagination by facilitating and preserving access to scholarship and information. The Digital Strategies and Systems (DSS) division encompasses units responsible for the library's technology infrastructure, web presence, data services, publishing initiatives, and digital repository services. Within DSS, the Digital Technologies and Services (DTS) unit specifically manages the IT infrastructure that enables users to access, discover, and utilize library resources. DTS provides systems support, software development, system integrations, and digital data management, ensuring a user-focused technology experience across the libraries' website, intranet, and discovery tools.

About the Position

The Director, Digital Technologies and Services (DTS) will oversee the management of the Library Services Platform (Alma/Primo), IT infrastructure, online applications, web services, and desktop support. Reporting to the Associate Dean of Digital Strategies and Systems, this role involves leading library faculty and staff, collaborating with stakeholders to understand user needs and technological solutions, and contributing to the advancement of the libraries' goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Technology Infrastructure Management and Strategy: Provide direction for the libraries’ primary services delivery platform (Alma), public-facing discovery system (Primo), authenticated access, IT infrastructure (onsite and remote servers), online application development, web services (including the main library website), and desktop support. Lead the design, planning, development, management, and enhancement of the libraries’ electronic resources and web presence.
• Technology Services Change Management: Evaluate emergent best practices and technologies to improve IT operations and library system management, and strategically guide DTS staff to meet evolving needs.
• Supervision: Set clear performance goals, communicate expectations, organize workflows, and foster employee engagement and development through feedback, coaching, and training. Ensure compliance with university policies and ethical practices.
• Emergency Preparedness and Digital Preservation: Develop and maintain strategies for data loss prevention, mitigation, and recovery. Conduct IT risk assessments, implement backup and storage systems, and research best practices for IT infrastructure supporting digital preservation.
• Service and Scholarship: Engage in university and professional service, and conduct research and creative work as outlined by university guidelines.

Requirements

• Master's degree from an ALA-accredited program in Library or Information Science, or an equivalent certified foreign degree.
• Significant experience leading digital technology initiatives (operating systems, data structures, programming, networking), with a demonstrated ability to stay current with evolving information technologies.
• Considerable experience with Library Services Platform technology.
• Considerable technology project management experience, including planning, execution, and delivery of complex initiatives.
• Experience supervising staff and/or teams.
• Knowledge of current and emerging information technologies for library environments.
• Knowledge of computer hardware, software, networks, and related technologies.
• Skill in analyzing software packages and hardware configurations.
• Strong communication skills to convey complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Skill in effective delegation and supervision.
• Ability to build relationships and foster collaboration across diverse teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Considerable experience with the Alma/Primo library management system.
• Experience managing system migrations to the cloud.
• Ability to lead organizational change in response to evolving technologies.
• Web and digital development knowledge and skills.

What We Offer

• A comprehensive total rewards package including competitive health and wellness benefits.
• Retirement contributions and generous leave.
• Tuition benefits for employees.
• The opportunity to contribute to the mission of Virginia's largest and most diverse public research university.

George Mason University is an equal opportunity employer, committed to promoting diversity and inclusion.