Executive Adviser to the Board - Newark Public Library
Job Description:
Executive
Adviser to the Board
The Newark Public Library is New Jersey’s largest municipal library,
providing collections and services at the Main Library and six operating
branches located in neighborhoods throughout the city. The Library is a gateway to knowledge and
lifelong learning: nurturing youth and families, contributing to the personal
growth and well-being of all Newarkers, strengthening digital literacy skills
for all, enhancing and promoting the Library’s special collections, and
providing welcoming environments.
Over the past decade, the Library has had three executive directors.
This fall, the Library brought on an interim executive director to oversee
library operations. The Library plans to hire the next permanent executive
director in mid-2026. A search committee is currently in formation, including
board members, staff members, and community representation. We anticipate
engaging a firm to assist with the national search,
Position Description:
The Executive Adviser to the Board (EAB) will serve as a trusted
outside adviser to the Board’s search committee. The person will assess the
welfare, challenges, and assets of the organization and will assist the Board
and Board search committee in establishing priorities for the organization to
inform the search.
Attributes of a
successful applicant:
•
Experience with the executive search process in the public and/or non
profit sector
•
Experience with organizational assessment
•
Experience with strategic thinking in partnership with a Board of
Trustees
•
Experience with large institutions in an urban setting
•
Successful candidate will have an Advanced Degree (preferred) but will
consider a Bachelor’s Degree in a related field for this position
•
Knowledge of and involvement with the City of Newark, NJ
Position
responsibilities:
•
Contribute executive expertise to assist with all aspects of the search
process
•
Canvas staff to assess the welfare, challenges, and assets of the
organization
•
Serve as a thought partner to the Board in establishing priorities for
the search
•
Advise the Board search committee to maximize relationship with the
outside search firm
•
Attend all relevant search and board meetings
Terms:
•
Be prepared to start in the first quarter, 2026
•
Position is anticipated to run for four months
•
Anticipated time commitment: 130 hours
•
Anticipated rate of pay: $135 per hour
•
Please submit a proposal
•
This role is structured as a 1099 contract with the Newark Public
Library
Deadline to apply: February 17, 2026 - Send your letter of interest, Resume and
proposal to:
Theresa Wright
Assistant Director for Human
Resources
Newark Public Library
5 Washington Street
P.O. Box 630
Newark, NJ 07102
Application link or email address: twright@npl.org
Salary range or hourly wage: $135/hr
MLS required: No, an MLS is not required.
Job focus: Administration/Management, Public Relations/Marketing, Support Staff/Paraprofessional
Work schedule: Contract