Carine Risley
San Francisco,CA
Summary
Dynamic leader with over fifteen years of San Mateo County management experience, recognized for a proven track record in developing and implementing strategic community initiatives. Expertise in managing complex budgets while fostering diverse partnerships to enhance community engagement and service effectiveness. Skilled at navigating complex political environments and committed to advancing equity for historically underserved populations. Results-oriented professional dedicated to driving positive change and improving community outcomes through innovative solutions.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
Deputy Director
San Mateo County Libraries
01.2017 - Current
- Led strategic initiatives to enhance community engagement and library services.
- Developed and implemented operational policies to improve service delivery across 13 community libraries and outreach locations throughout the County.
- Managed budgets effectively, ensuring resource allocation aligns with organizational goals.
- Collaborated with stakeholders to design programs that help communities thrive.
Division Manager of Youth and Outreach Services
San Mateo County Libraries
09.2013 - 01.2017
- Directed strategic initiatives to enhance library services and community engagement.
- Oversaw budget management and resource allocation across all community library and outreach locations.
Community Library Manager
San Mateo County Libraries
09.2009 - 09.2013
- Cultivated community development and services at Atherton, Brisbane, and Millbrae Libraries.
- Navigated complex political environments to cultivate strong, productive relationships with elected officials, city staff, and advocacy groups.
Education
Master of Science - Library And Information Science
San Jose State University
San Jose, California, CAMaster of Fine Arts - Creative Writing
University of Iowa Writers' Workshop
Iowa City, IABachelor of Arts - English
University of California, Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CASkills
- Skilled in public speaking
- Partnership development
- Strategic program development
- Analytical problem-solving
Accomplishments
- Urban Libraries Fellows Program (2025–2026): Selected for a highly competitive, year-long international leadership accelerator focused on driving transformative change and community services as catalysts for progress, fostering visionary leadership and strategic adaptability.
- San Mateo County Executive Leadership Academy (2017): Graduate of a selective professional development cohort offered by San Mateo County and Stanford University designed to prepare high-performing professionals for executive leadership roles.
Timeline
Deputy Director
San Mateo County Libraries
01.2017 - Current
Division Manager of Youth and Outreach Services
San Mateo County Libraries
09.2013 - 01.2017
Community Library Manager
San Mateo County Libraries
09.2009 - 09.2013
Master of Science - Library And Information Science
San Jose State University
Master of Fine Arts - Creative Writing
University of Iowa Writers' Workshop
Bachelor of Arts - English
University of California, Los Angeles