Professional Summary

Professional Overview

Victoria Dilly is an experienced Chief Executive Officer with a strong background in library and education management. She is currently leading The School Library Association (SLA) in Brighton, England, where she is responsible for driving the organization's strategic vision and overseeing its operations.

Experience Summary

Current Role

As the Chief Executive Officer of The School Library Association (SLA) since February 2025, Victoria is responsible for managing the organization's day-to-day operations, developing and implementing strategic initiatives, and collaborating with stakeholders to advocate for the role of school libraries in education. Under her leadership, the SLA has expanded its reach and impact, providing valuable resources and support to school librarians across the United Kingdom.

Career Progression

Prior to her current role, Victoria served as the Programmes Director (Maternity cover) at Speakers Trust in 2024, where she managed the organization's speaker development programs. She also held the position of Trustee at The School Library Association (SLA) from 2021 to 2024, during which time she contributed to the organization's strategic decision-making and governance. Additionally, Victoria has experience as the Skills and Learning Development Manager at the Royal Horticultural Society and as a Programme Manager at Libraries Connected.

Academic Background

Victoria holds a degree in Library and Information Science, which has provided her with a strong foundation in the principles and practices of library management and service delivery.

Areas of Expertise

Victoria's expertise spans across library management, education, and program development. She has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing school libraries, and she is skilled in developing and implementing strategies to support their growth and evolution. Additionally, Victoria's leadership experience, coupled with her strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills, have enabled her to drive impactful initiatives and foster collaborative partnerships.

Professional Impact

Under Victoria's leadership, The School Library Association (SLA) has expanded its reach and impact, providing valuable resources and support to school librarians across the United Kingdom. She has successfully led the organization's strategic planning process, resulting in the development of new programs and initiatives that have directly benefited the communities it serves.

Conclusion

With her extensive experience in library management, education, and program development, Victoria Dilly is well-positioned to continue driving the success of The School Library Association (SLA) and advocating for the critical role of school libraries in the education system.