The IFLA Governing Board is pleased to announce the opening of the search for a new Secretary General. The internationally experienced, executive search company Society has been engaged to assist with this process.

The International Federation of Library Associations & Institutions (IFLA) is the global voice of libraries, representing the interests of the library and information profession and working to improve library services worldwide. Our vision is of a strong and united library field powering literate, informed and participative societies. Our divisional structure enables membership voices, our vibrant professional community, and partners across six regions to define our global priorities, and to embed practical actions and policies around the world in support of these goals. Libraries are present in almost every city and town globally and so offer a unique potential to achieve policy goals, in particular those set out in the United Nations 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals. As such, IFLA progress is mapped out against these objectives.

The Secretary General is the Chief Executive Officer and the Head of IFLA’s Headquarters, and reports to the President of the Governing Board. Based in The Hague, Netherlands, with regular travel, this position offers an exciting leadership opportunity within an international and collaborative organisation. We are seeking a strategic, global development leader with robust change management skills and a successful track record in driving strategic clarity and building international partnerships. Diversifying funding and developing IFLA’s global profile will be core focuses of the role, as will building a cohesive working culture at the IFLA Headquarters as well as across IFLA’s working groups that comprise more than 1,200 volunteers.

Further information can be found on Society’s website. To apply you will need to upload your documents via Society’s website, the link for this can be found on the last page of the IFLA Secretary General – Candidate Pack. All questions about the position should be directed to the contact person listed in the announcement on the Society website.

The deadline for receipt of applications is midday GMT on 21 February 2023.

During the application window, IFLA and Society will host a Zoom-based ‘Open Hour’ with candidates where pre-submitted questions about the opportunity will be answered by members of the search committee.

The Governing Board encourages candidates to apply who have the experience and skills to lead and positively contribute to IFLA’s future.

Barbara Lison
IFLA President, 2021-23