Geelong Regional Library Corporation is seeking an outstanding Chief Executive Officer to lead one of Victoria’s largest regional public library services through a defining period of strategic and organisational transition. Reporting to the Board, the CEO will lead delivery of the Library Plan 2025–29, steward GRLC’s purpose of creating knowledge and connection for people and communities and guide the organisation through an important governance reform agenda.

This is a rare executive opportunity for a values-led leader with the strategic clarity, stakeholder acumen and organisational leadership capability to operate confidently in a complex, multi-stakeholder environment. The role calls for a leader who can build strong relationships with the Board, member councils, government and community partners, while maintaining a clear focus on culture, financial sustainability and community impact.

GRLC serves residents and visitors across five member councils through a broad regional network of libraries, mobile services and digital offerings, with a strong commitment to literacy, lifelong learning, inclusion and community wellbeing.

• Lead GRLC through its transition to a contemporary governance model.

• Lead delivery of the Library Plan 2025–29 and translate strategy into measurable outcomes.

• Provide strategic advice to the Board and ensure strong governance, compliance and risk management.

• Strengthen financial sustainability, partnerships, advocacy and organisational culture.

You will bring senior executive leadership experience in a complex public, community or similarly stakeholder-rich environment, with demonstrated capability across strategy execution, governance, financial stewardship, stakeholder engagement and organisational leadership. A strong values base, sound judgement and the ability to lead through complexity and change will be essential.

Based at Geelong Regional Library Corporation, with travel across the region and Melbourne. Residence in the Geelong region is preferred.

The Geelong Regional Libraries Corporation is supported in the appointment process by the executive search firm Korn Ferry.

For further information and to request a copy of the information pack, please contact Andrew Abbott, Grace Tan, or Jonathan Lai at Korn Ferry via GRLC-CEO@KornFerry.com.

Candidates should submit their application to the following email account:

E: GRLC-CEO@KornFerry.com

Prepare your application to include a covering letter and your CV.

Applications close at 11:59pm, Sunday 17 May 2026