EPFL Library and Archives (SISB-ARCH) play a strategic role by providing a broad range of library, archives and research support services, including user services, collection management, digital repositories, library systems, training, publishing support, research data management, and EPFL Archives. Committed to innovation, high‑quality collections and flexible spaces, SISB‑ARCH enhances the experience of students, researchers and staff while promoting the openness, dissemination and preservation of the university’s academic and scientific output.
Mission
The role offers an exciting opportunity to shape the future of EPFL’s Library and Archives during a period of accelerated transformation, implementing a compelling vision that continues to deliver service excellence, expertise and innovation.
The position reports to the Vice President for Operations and will be supported by a skilled leadership team.
Holding overall responsibility for the strategic development and operational management of the library’s collections, archives, services and systems, the Head of SISB-ARCH leads a highly service‑oriented team of 50 staff and ensures operational excellence, guides strategic direction, drives service innovation and aligns work practices with institutional priorities. Key to success is fostering collaborative partnerships with EPFL schools, academic support units, central services and external service and technology providers.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
* Define strategic priorities for library, archives and information services.
* Ensure continuity of core services, including EPFL Archives, while adapting to ongoing digital transformation.
* Drive innovation in AI‑enabled services, digital infrastructure and research information systems.
* Enhance the Library’s visibility as a trusted partner and catalyst for open access and research.
* Represent EPFL in national and international networks.
* Advise senior leadership on matters related to publisher negotiations and open access.
* Manage budgets, staffing and compliance with legal and institutional requirements.
* Demonstrate an entrepreneurial mindset and an innovative approach to the evolution of EPFL Library.
* Set priorities and leverage innovative technologies to maximise organisational impact.
* Build internal and external partnerships to optimise resources and services.
* Deliver inclusive, transparent and collaborative leadership aligned with EPFL’s values.
* Ensure the efficient delivery of advanced scientific information, library and archival services and technologies.
* Support staff development and foster a culture of trust, accountability and collaboration.
Qualifications and Experience Requirements
* Advanced degree in library and information science, with experience in a higher education setting.
* Minimum five years in academic library management, with a proven record of senior management leadership, strategic foresight and organisational change.
* Commitment to service excellence and innovation, with a proven ability to turn strategy into action through results‑driven, accountable and collaborative leadership.
* In‑depth knowledge of scholarly communication trends, scientific publishing models and consortial mechanisms.
* Broad understanding of emerging challenges in academic libraries, both nationally and globally, including the impact of AI on library services.
* Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills, with a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.
* Excellent communication skills in French and English; German is an advantage for national‑level representation.
We Offer
* A dynamic and multicultural working environment within a multidisciplinary institution of international renown.
* Attractive working conditions.
* A position with a high level of autonomy and responsibility.
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