Job Description: Director
Reports To: Board of Trustees & Founder
Location: Goa
Job Type: Full-Time
Salary: Competitive salary based on experience
About Bookworm
Bookworm’s vision is to inspire and develop a love for reading as a way of life, nurturing humane engagement in everyone. We run six programmes: Libraries; Libraries in Schools; Professional Development; Mobile Outreach Programme; Visual Arts Programme; and Libraries in Homes.
Over 19 years, we have built communities of readers, educators, and artists through curated library experiences for children and the public. We run five children’s libraries and activity spaces in Panjim, Saligao, Aldona, Cacra, and Chimbel which are ideal for creative and critical learning. We demonstrate the possibilities of library spaces, and the importance of sound library practices by conducting immersive training programmes for educators and institutions, who in turn impact hundreds of thousands of children.
Position Overview
The Director of Bookworm is responsible for overseeing the strategic direction, management, and operations of Bookworm. This includes providing leadership, ensuring the development and execution of ongoing programs, and managing resources to meet Bookworm’s mission and vision. The Director will work closely with the team, volunteers, community organizations, and interface with the Founder and the Board of Trustees to provide strategic direction and enable new offerings across programs.
Key Responsibilities:
- Leadership and Strategic Planning:
- Lead the development and implementation of the library’s mission, vision, and strategic plans.
- Foster a dynamic and inclusive environment that encourages learning, critical thinking, and community engagement.
- Promote the library’s work and establish it as a key resource across communities.
- Program Development and Implementation:
- Oversee the planning, development, and execution of Bookworm’s programs across schools, community sites, in its libraries.
- Ensure program delivery, reporting and budget tracking/ financial utilisation across programs in an ongoing manner.
- Deepen relationships with existing partners and build new relationships to further the programs.
- Staff Management and Development:
- Supervise, mentor, and lead the team enabling their professional development and a positive, collaborative work environment.
- Recruit, hire, and retain talented staff and volunteers who are passionate about children’s education, libraries, and enabling critical thinking.
- Establish clear goals, performance expectations, and conduct regular evaluations of staff performance.
- Financial Management:
- Develop and manage Bookworm’s annual budget, ensuring effective allocation of resources to support programs and operations.
- Identify fundraising opportunities, and cultivate relationships with donors and sponsors.
- Network with various corporates, and agencies for project funding..
- Give shape to grant proposals being submitted across programs, in collaboration with program leads.
- Oversee financial controls to ensure compliance with relevant regulations and policies.
- Community Outreach and Advocacy:
- Serve as the primary spokesperson for Bookworm, build a presence and following on LinkedIn and other platforms which encourage professional connections.
- Shape the communications strategy across different platforms, mainly LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook, and Bookworm’s monthly newsletter.
- Build and maintain relationships with local schools, parent groups, library organisations, and government agencies.
- Organize and participate in community outreach efforts/ events to build Bookworm’s presence.
- Operations and Facilities Management:
- Ensure the efficient operation of the library’s physical space, vehicles, and other facilities.
- Have oversight on library resources including books, art supplies, and other material.
Qualifications
- Education: A Master’s degree in Management , Education , Development Leadership or similar. We encourage applications from experienced candidates with different/equivalent educational qualifications.
- Experience: At least 10 to 12 years of experience in a leadership role with an NGO working in the area of education and public engagement or similar preferably with a focus on children’s services.
- Skills:
- Strong leadership and organizational skills with the ability to manage teams effectively, build from what exists, and achieve agreed objectives.
- Knowledge or familiarity with child development, early literacy programs, and educational best practices.
- Strong budget management and fundraising experience.
- Ability to build relationships with community members, parents, schools, and stakeholders.
- Proficient in the use of library management systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Knowledge of Konkani and Marathi (desirable), Hindi (preferred) and English.
Personal Characteristics
- Passion for education, literacy, and community development.
- Creative thinker with a strong ability to innovate and problem-solve.
- Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
- Great resilience and interpersonal skills, with the ability to connect across a diverse set of stakeholders.
- Strong work ethic with a collaborative, team-oriented approach.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and references lalita@bookwormgoa.in