Job Description

What We Do

For over 20 years, Library Foundation SD has been a transformative force in evolving the San Diego Public Library system from a traditional book provider into a dynamic hub for learning, growth, and opportunity. Established in 2002, the Foundation has raised over $160 million in private funds to enhance library programs, expand collections, improve facilities, and support the library’s mission.

With a $3.5 million annual budget, the Foundation’s impact is far-reaching. It was integral to the completion of the iconic Central Library @ Joan Λ Irwin Jacobs Common, the addition and renovation of library branches, and the expansion of collections across the system. The Foundation has led initiatives such as Books Unbanned, Library NExT, and Career On-Line High School, and guided the creation of the visionary Library Master Plan. Additionally, the Foundation champions programs such as Summer Reading, which engaged 30,000 youth in 2023, preparing them for a successful school year.

Through relentless advocacy and partnerships, the Foundation has secured crucial funding to prevent budget cuts, avoid branch closures, and meet City matching fund goals for 19 consecutive years. Its work in the impact areas of social justice and equity, early childhood, education and lifelong learning, digital learning and access, economic and workforce development, and cultural and civic engagement continues to empower individuals, enrich lives, and strengthen communities throughout San Diego. Thanks to the Foundation’s support of READ/San Diego program, 22,000 adults have gained literacy skills, helping to break barriers to success. Since 2013, the Foundation’s advocacy efforts have successfully secured a 66% increase in the library’s operating budget, ensuring the library can continue to provide essential services and resources for all San Diegans.

LEADERSHIP & CULTURE

Since 2019, Patrick Stewart has served as CEO of Library Foundation SD. With a distinguished career in literacy, arts, and culture, he has led organizations such as Words Alive and the Atlas Performing Arts Center. A committed community leader, Patrick actively collaborates with regional nonprofits and serves on several boards, driving positive impact in philanthropy and the arts.

The Foundation thrives on the energy and enthusiasm of its small, close-knit team of 15, where fun, collaboration, and a shared sense of purpose are central to their work. This supportive culture fosters strong relationships and contributes to an exceptional work environment. With an average staff tenure of 9.5 years, the Foundation has cultivated a team culture of stability, loyalty, and a deep commitment to long-term growth and impact.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• Salary – $120,000 - $140,000
• Medical and dental insurance
• 401(k) match
• PTO: 16 paid days off, 12 paid holidays
• Cell phone reimbursement
• Work from home stipend

LOCATION

This is a hybrid role with an office located at the Central Library in Downtown San Diego.

POSITION SUMMARY

Reporting to the CEO, the Chief Marketing & Public Affairs Officer serves as the Library Foundation SD’s top marketing leader, driving efforts to elevate its visibility, enhance its reputation, and deepen stakeholder engagement. This highly collaborative role partners with internal teams and external partners to design and implement integrated marketing, communications, public relations, and advocacy strategies aligned with the Foundation’s mission and goals. They build and nurture relationships with donors, community leaders, government officials, and media while fostering strategic partnerships to amplify the Foundation’s reach and impact. They oversee marketing campaigns, manage communications, and support fundraising initiatives, ensuring cohesive messaging and meaningful engagement with diverse audiences. The Chief Marketing & Public Affairs Officer is also responsible for a $300k department budget and direct supervision of the Associate Director of Marketing, driving operational efficiency, and creative growth and excellence.

Priorities in the first twelve months include:

• Build Relationships and Foster Connections : Build trusted relationships with staff, board members, elected officials, and community partners through meetings, branch visits, and event attendance, strengthening advocacy efforts and positioning the library system as a valued community resource.
• Enhance Marketing and Communications : Conduct a top-to-bottom review of the current marketing department, propose a new structure to align with the strategic plan, and develop a comprehensive marketing and communications plan to increase visibility and amplify impact.
• Support Fundraising and Advocacy Efforts : Support efforts to expand the donor base, mitigate the effects of budget cuts, and boost the number of library supporters engaging in advocacy efforts, particularly at City Council meetings and during the budget cycle.
• Refine Strategic Messaging : Partner with stakeholders to refine strategic messaging, communicate the libraries’ value to the community, and highlight its transformative role in improving quality of life and access to resources.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Serve as a strategic advisor and thought partner to the CEO and Board of Directors, providing insights and leadership to advance philanthropy, advocacy, and community outreach initiatives.
• Lead marketing and communications efforts to support the opening of the new Mission Hills retail location, ensuring alignment with its purpose as a retail, event, and community space.
• Drive advocacy efforts to build awareness and highlight the San Diego Library system's role in serving diverse communities, emphasizing its value and impact.
• Manage and optimize the communications budget and resources, including oversight of external consulting partnerships for ongoing and project-based initiatives.
• Develop and implement messaging strategies, providing training, and coaching to staff and board members to ensure consistent communication and a unified understanding of the Foundation’s mission and goals.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to craft compelling campaigns that resonate with donors, community members, and elected officials.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of public affairs and communication strategies, adapting approaches to maximize impact and align with organizational priorities.
• Represent the Foundation at public events, meetings, and media engagements to advocate for its mission and strengthen community and governmental relationships.
• Oversee team operations, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability within the marketing and public affairs department.

BACKGROUND PROFILE

• Passionate about libraries as vital community hubs, with a personal connection that underscores their transformative impact and dedication to promoting equity and inclusion.
• Proven success in nonprofit communications, advocacy, and community outreach, with experience marketing to diverse audiences, including high-net-worth donors and local communities. Skilled in scaling initiatives and managing limited resources effectively.
• Expertise in organizing impactful events and campaigns, navigating public-private partnerships, and managing political relationships. Comfortable working with city governments, elected officials, and community stakeholders.
• Thrives in a collaborative, hands-on role, taking initiative to develop and implement strategic ideas. Skilled in managing consultants, teams, and service providers while meeting deadlines and driving deliverables.
• Strong and effective public speaking, writing, editing, and PR/media relations skills. Brings a keen eye for design and the ability to communicate complex issues with clarity and energy, ensuring alignment with advocacy goals and organizational values.

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