Manager, Research & Process improvement

Halifax Public Libraries invites applications for the full-time, permanent position of Manager, Research & Process Improvement located at Alderney Gate Public Library.

Halifax Public Libraries is an inclusive employer committed to employment equity and building a diverse workforce. We encourage all qualified persons to apply and self-identify. We will accommodate applicants' needs under the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act throughout all stages of the recruitment and selection process. If you require an accommodation, we will confidentially address your needs.

JOB SUMMARY
Under the direction of the Director, Strategy with accountability to the Senior Excellence Team, The Manager, Research & Process Improvement is responsible for the provision of data and analytics expertise, services, metrics, and tracking frameworks. The Manager, Research & Process Improvement works together with Managers across all districts, Senior Leadership, and the regional and district teams to support planning and evaluation of library services and programs, with a focus on supporting data-driven decision making and evaluation of library services and programs.
This position works closely with the Human Resources Team and the Public Service Team to evaluate staffing levels and provides guidance and advice on appropriate staffing levels across the Library system.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Research and Analytics

• Develop and implement a comprehensive research strategy to support service planning, policy development, and strategic initiatives.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret diverse data sets, including usage metrics, demographic trends, and customer feedback, to identify patterns and opportunities for improvement.
• Design and maintain dashboards, reports, and visualization tools to communicate insights effectively to stakeholders.
• Ensure research methodologies incorporate principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion,
• and produce actionable recommendations for reducing barriers to library access.
• Provide expert guidance on data governance, privacy compliance, and ethical use of
• information.
• Support service planning and evaluation including the collection, synthesis and analysis of KPIs, program outcome data, human resource data and other quantitative and qualitative data.
• Support service development by providing socio-demographic data and market research
• on the Halifax Regional Municipality, library membership and library stakeholders.
• Support the Library's reporting functions by preparing statistical, reports required by government and other agencies. This includes creating data infrastructure, preparing statistical usage reports, and research briefs and presentations on research findings.
• Effectively use a wide range of data sources including the Integrated Library System, database usage reports, human resources data, website and social media metrics, census and geo-demographic data, market segmentation and other socio-demographic community information and customer survey data.
• Report to both the Province and the Municipality on key performance indicators.
• Build partnerships and professional relationships within Halifax Regional Municipality, provincial departments, other agencies and boards, regional and community organizations, provincial, national and international library colleagues, and the public in the effort to develop outstanding services, programs and community engagement.

Business Process Improvement

• Conduct process mapping and workflow analysis to identify inefficiencies and recommend solutions for improved service delivery.
• Apply continuous improvement frameworks (Lean, Six Sigma, Design Thinking) to optimize operations and enhance user experience.
• Develop performance metrics and benchmarks to monitor progress and measure the impact of process changes.
• Facilitate workshops and training sessions to build organizational capacity for process improvement.
• Lead post-implementation reviews and establish feedback loops to ensure sustainability of improvements.
• Participate in 'Design Thinking' at Halifax Public Libraries as a method for continuous
• improvement, including interviewing, requirements gathering, empathy mapping, brainstorming, storyboarding and feedback loops. Participates in the execution of Design and Innovation projects by inspiring and guiding teams through the research, design and experience process, facilitating and leading collaborative planning sessions, and presentations. Leads post-implementation reviews to identify areas of success and improvement opportunities and create a feedback loop for incorporating lessons learned into future projects.

Project Management

• Manage library-wide projects from initiation through completion, ensuring alignment with strategic goals and organizational priorities.
• Develop detailed project plans, including scope, timelines, budgets, and resource allocation, and monitor progress against milestones.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams, ensuring clear communication, accountability, and timely delivery of project outcomes.
• Identify and mitigate risks, resolve issues proactively, and maintain stakeholder engagement throughout the project lifecycle.
• Document lessons learned to integrate best practices into future projects.

Leadership and Collaboration

• Provide mentorship and guidance to staff engaged in research, analytics, and project work, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous learning.
• Build and maintain partnerships with municipal, provincial, and community organizations to advance collaborative initiatives.
• Represent Halifax Public Libraries on committees, task forces, and professional networks to share expertise and influence best practices.
• Champion organizational values of equity, inclusion, and service excellence in all aspects of work.
• Provide ongoing leadership across the Library system by participating in complex organizational and change management initiatives, applying effective management techniques and performance management processes, and developing leaders.
• Encourages creativity and innovation enabling employees to conceptualize and advance new concepts and plans.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Master's Degree in Library Science, or another equivalent degree and progressive experience in the service, design, or technology field and four (4) years of related experience, or an acceptable combination of education and experience.

OR

• Related Bachelor's degree and six (6) years of related experience, or an acceptable combination of education and experience.

Specific Knowledge & Technical Experience:
Required:

• Read and write English
• Experience researching, compiling, and summarizing a variety of informational and statistical
• data and materials
• Strong team and project leadership skills
• A background in information management, statistical analysis, and data visualization
• Public speaking and presentation skills
• Demonstrated leadership experience and ability to provide instruction, coaching and training
• Excellent computer knowledge and skills including:
• Functions of a web browser
• Microsoft office applications
• Social media applications
• Strong technology skills including:
• Willingness to learn and experiment with additional tools and technologies
• Willingness to support others in learning technical skills and concepts

Assets:

• Experience with GIS software
• Experience working with SQL to write complex queries.
• CORE COMPETENCIES
• Serving with Care
• Respect for Diversity, Welcome and Value Inclusion
• Learning and Growth Mindset
• Communication
• Resilience

LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES

• Strategic thinking
• Resource Management
• Leading and Developing Others
• Accountability