Team Manager Library and Information Service

Are you an experienced leader with a passion for delivering outstanding customer service? Do you thrive in managing people, buildings, and budgets? If so, we want to hear from you.

East Sussex County Council’s Library and Information Service operates 17 libraries and a growing online offer, providing vital services to our communities. We’re looking for a Team Manager to lead our library teams and ensure the service is customer-focused, efficient, and aligned with our strategy:

• Improving literacy for children and adults
• Supporting the local economy
• Promoting health and wellbeing
• Increasing digital inclusion

What makes this role unique?

You do not need previous library experience to apply. We’re looking for someone who can bring strong leadership, operational management, and strategic thinking to the role. You’ll be comfortable managing buildings, overseeing frontline service delivery, and driving projects that make a real difference to East Sussex residents.

What you’ll do:

• Lead and motivate teams to deliver high-quality customer service
• Manage library buildings, budgets, and resources effectively
• Develop and implement service plans and strategies
• Oversee procurement, business planning, and external communications working with our corporate communications team
• Build partnerships and seek funding opportunities
• Ensure compliance with health and safety and statutory requirements

What we’re looking for:

• Proven leadership and people management skills
• Experience in managing budgets and operational services
• Ability to think strategically and deliver results
• Strong communication and influencing skills
• Resilience and flexibility in a fast-paced environment

Why join us?

This is a fantastic opportunity to shape a service that matters to thousands of residents. You’ll have the chance to work on projects, contribute to policy development, and make a tangible impact on your community. We offer flexible working options, including some home working, but you’ll also be a visible presence in our library buildings.

Please download the Job Description and Person Specification for more information.

Ready to lead the way? Apply now and help us deliver a customer-focused library service for East Sussex.

To apply for this role please click here which will take you to our recruitment partners to upload your CV and a Supporting Statement. When writing your Supporting Statement, please be sure to address how you meet all the criteria in the person specification drawing on any relevant work/life experience, education or personal interests.

Interviews will take place in-person in County Hall, Lewes. Interviews will be held on Thursday 12 February 2026. If you are unavailable on these dates let us know and we may be able to schedule an alternative date to interview you.

Candidates who meet certain criteria are given priority when we shortlist. See our priority status page for details.

We offer a diverse range of benefits to help and support you during your employment. More information can be found on our benefits page.

For a confidential discussion about this role, please contact our recruitment partners at Penna: Andreas Efthymiou on 07546 415 794 or andreas.efthymiou@penna.com.

For work that makes a difference, choose East Sussex!