Strategic Lead - Libraries & Heritage Service

Job Description

Discover yourself in Lewisham where what you do makes a difference to our vibrant and culturally diverse communities!

We have a rich history of welcoming people from all over the world and are proud to be recognised as the UK’s first Borough of Sanctuary, for our work in championing the rights of refugees and migrants.

Are you an inspiring leader with a passion for libraries and heritage? We’re seeking a Strategic Lead who combines a strong track record in service development with experience of building positive community partnerships and working within a political environment. If you’re skilled at driving innovative projects, engaging stakeholders, and committed to delivering the libraries Universal Offers and more, we’d love to hear from you.

What’s the role? ……

The Strategic Lead for Libraries and Heritage Service plays a pivotal role in shaping and delivering Lewisham’s library and heritage provision, ensuring these vital services are accessible and relevant to our diverse communities. This leadership position oversees the development, modernisation, and promotion of library and heritage assets, working collaboratively with stakeholders to champion inclusivity and lifelong learning. The postholder will drive innovative projects, nurture community partnerships, and safeguard Lewisham’s rich cultural heritage for future generations.

If you’re energised by purpose, motivated by impact, this is your place and moment to make a lasting impact in Lewisham by shaping accessible, modern library and heritage services for our diverse community.

Come and join us at Lewisham, a council rooted in strong values and driven by a deep commitment to its people. We’re proud of our borough’s diversity, creativity, and resilience, and we work every day to champion fairness, amplify community voice, and deliver services that genuinely change lives. We have a rich history of welcoming people from all over the world and are proud to be recognised as the UK’s first Borough of Sanctuary, for our work in championing the rights of refugees and migrants.

At Lewisham, you’ll be part of a team that leads with integrity, collaborates with purpose, and isn’t afraid to be bold in pursuit of a better future. If you want to contribute to a council that stands up for its residents, celebrates its heritage, and strives for a more equal, inclusive borough, Lewisham is the place to make your impact count.

What’s in it for you?

Excellent training and development opportunities, plus a range of benefits including:

• Generous holiday allowance
• Local Government Pension scheme
• Flexible working and family friendly policies
• Season ticket and bicycle loans
• A range of staff discounts including local subsidised gym memberships
• Supportive staff networks

Location

The job is primarily based in Laurence House and within our Hub Libraries( Deptford, Downham, Catford and Lewisham), but we operate a hybrid approach where you will be required to work both in the office and from home on a regular basis.

The recruitment process is anonymous and we don’t accept CV’s.

Applicant handbook - please read the guidance in this handbook when applying. It is essential that you complete the application fully and that your supporting statement covers how you meet each of the person specification criteria listed.

For an informal discussion about this job, please contact Sidra Hill-Reid, Head of Community Education and Cultural Assets via email: Sidra.Hill-Reid@lewisham.gov.uk

Please click here to view the Job Description and Person Specification

Salary

£ 64,938.00 - £69,660.00 per annum (SMG1)

N.B: All appointments will be offered at the minimum spinal column point (SCP) for the grade of the role. The only exception to this will be when matching current salary (up to the maximum of the scale), which is subject to evidential proof.

Diversity

Lewisham Council is a Disability Confident employer. We welcome and encourage job applications of all abilities. If you require any reasonable adjustments in the application or interview, please contact the lead contact on this advert. We will make reasonable adjustments to make sure our disabled applicants and those with health conditions are supported throughout our recruitment process. We support the access to work scheme, further details are available at www.gov.uk/access-to-work/apply

The Council has a dedicated employment support service, Lewisham Works, which offers Lewisham residents guidance in relation to applying for jobs. If you want to join Lewisham Works, please email LewishamWorks@lewisham.gov.uk and an advisor will be in touch with you.

The Council reserves the right to close adverts early if there is a large response.

Let’s stay connected, follow us on social media:

LinkedIn Facebook X Instagram