The expatriate library director

McKnight, S, 2007. The expatriate library director. Library Management, 28 (45), pp. 231-241. ISSN 0143-5124

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Abstract

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to provide library managers with information about what to expect if they are considering a post in another country. It challenges a suggestion that a senior manager's major value is their local network. Rather, the skills, experience, culture and attitude, as well as networks, can contribute to a successful career in another country. Design/methodology/approach - The paper provides an example of an Australian expatriate senior library manager who took up a post in the United Kingdom. It draws upon literature on cultural differences and knowledge transfer across international borders. Findings - The paper provides an example of a successful transfer of management knowledge to a new country, highlighting actions taken to form a new management team. Also provides practical advice on personal and social matters that have to be addressed for the relocation to be successful. Practical implications - Leadership, good management, and an awareness of, and sensitivity to, cultural differences are required for a successful transfer of management knowledge. At a senior level, it is not so much about expertise in librarianship, but management and leadership that are important. Originality/value - The paper provides a positive example of an expatriate senior library manager moving to a new country. It will be of interest to anyone contemplating an international professional relocation

Item Type:	Journal article
Description:	Post-print
Publication Title:	Library Management
Creators:	McKnight, S.
Publisher:	Emerald Publishing
Date:	2007
Volume:	28
Number:	45
ISSN:	0143-5124
Identifiers:	Number Type 10.1108/01435120710744182 DOI
Rights:	© Emerald Publishing
Divisions:	Professional Services > Libraries and Learning Resources
Record created by:	EPrints Services
Date Added:	09 Oct 2015 10:29
Last Modified:	23 Aug 2016 09:10
URI:	https://irep.ntu.ac.uk/id/eprint/13613

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