Director of Collections

State Library Victoria, Director of Collections

Location: Melbourne, Australia | Term: Full Time, Fixed-Term Contract

Lead One of the World’s Great Libraries into the Future

This is your opportunity to shape the vision and strategy for one of the most significant cultural collections in the Southern Hemisphere. At State Library Victoria, you’ll lead innovation at scale—redefining how knowledge is preserved, accessed, and experienced globally.

Why This Role?

• Global Impact: Oversee a collection of more than 5 million items, from rare manuscripts and artworks to cutting-edge digital archives.
• Innovation Leadership: Drive digital transformation, leveraging technology and AI to make collections more accessible and engaging worldwide.
• Cultural Leadership: Embed First Nations perspectives and global narratives into the Library’s curatorial vision, ensuring inclusivity and relevance for future generations.
• Scale & Influence: Lead a division representing one-third of the Library’s workforce, shaping strategy and operations at the highest level.

About State Library Victoria

Founded in 1854, State Library Victoria is Australia’s oldest public library and among the first free libraries in the world. Today, it is a globally connected cultural institution and a vibrant hub for learning, creativity, and innovation. Its iconic heritage spaces, including the La Trobe Reading Room, inspire millions of visitors annually, while its digital platforms extend its reach worldwide.

The Opportunity

As Director of Collections, you will join the Executive Team and report directly to the CEO. You will:

• Lead the development and execution of the Library’s Collections Strategy, with a strong focus on digital innovation.
• Enhance discoverability and access to both physical and digital collections.
• Reimagine storage and retrieval systems for future-ready access.
• Build strategic partnerships across the global cultural sector.
• Drive organisational change and foster a culture of collaboration and excellence.

What We’re Looking For

• Proven strategic leadership at executive level in complex, high-profile organisations.
• Expertise in collection development and management—physical and digital.
• Visionary thinking on the future of libraries, technology, and accessibility.
• Exceptional stakeholder engagement and change leadership skills.
• A collaborative, inclusive leadership style with a global perspective.

Why Melbourne?

Consistently ranked among the world’s most liveable cities, Melbourne offers a dynamic cultural scene, world-class dining, and a thriving arts community—making it an ideal destination for international leaders.

Ready to Lead a Legacy?

Apply now and help shape the future of one of the world’s great libraries. For a confidential discussion, contact Dr Grace Tan or Dr Jonathan Lai at Korn Ferry.

Applications close: 11:59pm, Sunday 28 September

Submit your CV and cover letter to

SE#510743129