Who is it for?
This group is intended for staff within Mercian member libraries who hold senior operational and strategic responsibilities but are not heads of service. In converged services, this typically refers to third-tier roles.
Participation is voluntary, and institutions may be represented by more than one individual. Members of SCONUL deputies groups are also welcome.
Purpose of the group
The group provides a collaborative space for members to:
- Exchange experience and expertise
- Share innovations and best practices
- Discuss sector-wide topics and challenges
- Offer peer support during periods of change
- Engage in horizon scanning
- Receive guidance when transitioning into senior roles
- Make recommendations to the Mercian Directors/Steering Group on relevant activities and policies
- Facilitate shared projects aligned with the strategic aims of the Collaboration
Meeting frequency
The group meets three to four times per year, primarily online, with occasional in-person meetings.
Group Organisation
- The chairing role rotates for each meeting.
- The chair is responsible for scheduling the next meeting and issuing invitations.
- Meetings are informal, and formal minutes are not recorded.
- A call for discussion topics is issued ahead of each meeting.
- An annual summary of discussion topics is submitted to the Mercian Directors Group.
- Terms of Reference (v1.1, June 2021)
- Agendas, Minutes, & Reports (autumn 2019 – autumn 2022)
Mailing List
Members can continue discussions and seek advice between meetings via the group’s mailing list:
https://www.jiscmail.ac.uk/cgi-bin/wa-jisc.exe?A0=MERCIAN-SENIORSTAFF-GROUP
Updated 11th November 2025
