Co-chair – CILIP ARLG Committee

Would you like to develop your skills and sector knowledge by serving as CILIP ARLG’s next co-chair?

CILIP Special Interest Group ARLG (Academic and Research Libraries Group) is seeking a member to join the Committee and become our co-chair.

Co-Chair – CILIP Academic and Research Libraries Group (Volunteer Role) 

Role purpose 

This is a voluntary role and an opportunity to shape professional practice, influence sector conversations, and develop leadership skills (PKSB 11.1 - 11.9) and contribute to your profession to provide CPD opportunities for the academic (FE/HE and research) sector in the UK and in liaison with CILIP Scotland.  

Key responsibilities 

Strategic leadership and governance 

• Provide clear leadership to ARLG, ensuring it delivers its core offer and annual priorities as set out in the business plan.
• Ensure that ARLG operates in line with CILIP’s regulations, policies, and codes of conduct, including equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI).
• Work with committee members to set direction, manage risks, and ensure continuity and sustainability of the group. 

Chairing and coordination 

• Share responsibility for chairing committee meetings and the Annual General Meeting, ensuring meetings are well plannedplanned, inclusive, and productive.
• Support committee members to contribute effectively, valuing diverse perspectives and encouraging shared responsibility.
• Work closely with the Co-Secretaries to agree agendas, manage communications, and follow up on actions.
• Work closely with the Publicity and Web Officer to promote events using relevant mailing lists and platforms.  

Representation and advocacy 

• Act as the lead spokesperson for ARLG, representing its views at CILIP meetings, events, and consultations.
• Ensure professional issues affecting ARLG members are communicated to CILIP and that ARLG contributes to relevant CILIP initiatives, consultations, and policy responses.
• Where appropriate, identify and support alternative representatives to attend events or meetings. 

Planning, reporting, and finance 

• Lead the development of the annual business plan and oversee delivery throughout the year.
• Encourage the development of an annual programme of ARLG regional events and visits, growing the network of the Regional Event Co-ordinators agreeing funding support.
• Contribute to the preparation of the Chair’s Annual General Meeting report, celebrating impact and learning.
• Maintain an overview of ARLG’s financial position and work with the Treasurer (or Co-treasurers) to ensure funds are used responsibly and transparently. 

Membership engagement and promotion 

• Champion the value of ARLG and CILIP membership across the library, information, and knowledge professions.
• Support activities that engage, grow, and retain members, including developing an annual programme of regional events in conjunction with the Regional Event co-ordinators, communications, and partnerships.
• Encourage inclusive participation and help ensure that ARLG reflects the diversity of the profession and its communities. 

Skills and experience 

You do not need to be in a managerial position or have chaired a committee before. Support is available. However, the role would suit someone who:

• Has an interest in leadership, collaboration, and professional development and wants to develop these skills
• Communicates clearly and confidently, including in meetings and written communications
• Is organised and able to balance strategic thinking with practical delivery
• Is committed to inclusive practice and respectful, collaborative working 

Time commitment 

• On average 1–3 hours per week, shared with the Co-Chair and varying across the year
• Time commitment may increase around events, planning cycles, or the AGM
• The role is typically held for a fixed term (e.g. 2–3 years), in line with Special Interest Group rules 

Support and development 

• Induction and guidance from CILIP Community Development Manager (England) and outgoing Co-Chairs.
• Ongoing support from CILIP staff and the Member Networks community
• Opportunities for leadership development, networking, and professional visibility 

What you’ll gain 

• Experience of strategic leadership and governance within a professional body
• The chance to influence professional practice and policy
• Increased professional profile and confidence
• The satisfaction of supporting and connecting a community of practice
• Evidence for Professional Registration (Chartership, Fellowship) and CILIP Revalidation  

Applicants are encouraged from staff across all UK academic (FE/HE) and research sectors. CILIP is committed to championing diversity, inclusion and representation. We particularly welcome applications from ethnically diverse, disabled, and LGBTQ+ professionals who have historically been under-represented on our committees.  

Next steps 

If you would like more information or would like to apply for the role, email the ARLG committee at chair.arlg@cilip.org.uk. To apply, please submit a brief statement up to 150 words outlining your experience and suitability. 

The closing date for applications of interest is 30 March 2026.  

If this role isn’t right for you but you would like to explore other opportunities to be involved with our committee, please get in touch.