President and Chief Executive Officer

The Board of Trustees of The Enoch Pratt Free Library (the Pratt) of Baltimore seeks a dynamic and experienced library professional to lead the historic and unique organization as President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The Pratt is one of the oldest free public library systems in the United States serving the 569,000+ residents of the City of Baltimore through its 22 locations. In an unusually expanded mission, it also serves the 6.1 million residents of Maryland as the State Library Resource Center. Governed by combined Boards of Trustees and Directors, served by a seasoned staff of 447, and sustained by a $56.1 million annual operating budget, the Enoch Pratt Free Library seeks a CEO who will direct a community-minded facilities master plan, advance strategic partnerships, provide equitable and responsive programs, strengthen diversity, equity, and inclusion as a foundation of the healthy organizational culture, and narrow the digital divide with intentional programs that address access to relevant technologies.

On January 21, 1882, Enoch Pratt (a Baltimore banker and investor) gave Baltimore City a free library, which he stipulated, "shall be for all, rich or poor without distinction of race or color." The Enoch Pratt Free Library continues to contribute historical and cultural significance to the unique city it serves. Baltimore offers a diverse array of architecture to appreciate throughout its many neighborhoods, opportunities to immerse oneself in the arts and cultural heritage institutions and is a magnet for bibliophiles with its rich literary history and accompanying sites of interest. Geographically located with convenient access to other notable cities such as Washington DC, New York City, and Philadelphia, the waterfronts, parks and promenades of Baltimore boast beautiful views, recreational opportunities, and delicious dining experiences.

Responsibilities: The CEO directs the Pratt's strategic planning process; ensures compliance with the law and the MOU between the Maryland State Library Agency and the Enoch Pratt Free Library; supports board committee activities and implements board policies; serves as the primary fundraiser for the institution; actively cultivates relationships with donors and hosts multiple fundraising events; manages the Trustee Budget; approves annual City and State budgets; implements maintenance of a 22-branch system along with new branch development; directs, develops and implements capital project plans; ensures that staff are providing world class customer service through appropriate oversight of library leadership; ensures that staff welfare and morale are maintained; promotes transparent and up-to-date communication; provides performance evaluations for all direct reports; ensures a positive labor-management relationship that is aligned with the Pratt's values, culture and organizational goals; exercises leadership in instituting innovative and non-traditional services; serves as a standing member of the Mayor's Cabinet; participates as an active member of Maryland Association of Public Library Administrators; champions strategic initiatives, policy changes, and best practices that create an equitable, diverse, and inclusive environment for the Pratt's staff and patrons.

Qualifications: A master's degree in library and information science from an ALA-accredited college or university is required. Seven to ten years of progressive senior management-level responsibilities in a multibranch library system is required. Technical knowledge with cloud-based software, current electronic technology in data-based information systems, traditional and emerging library service models are required. The board is looking for a professional with executive experience in strategic planning, working under the direction of a Board of Directors or Trustees, supervision of senior-level staff, leading in a contemporary urban setting, facilities management, fiscal administration and fundraising. A history of successful change management, including the design and implementation of new approaches to emerging demands or needs is important. Demonstrated leadership in a unionized environment with collective bargaining experience and active leadership in national and state-wide associations are preferred.

Compensation: The hiring salary range is $240,000 – $285,000 (with placement negotiable dependent on experience and qualifications), moving expenses, and an excellent fringe benefits package are included.

Contact: For further information, contact Bradbury Miller Associates. For full consideration, submit an application by Sunday, June 16, 2024.