Research findings on the recruitment market for library and information service (LIS) workers are discussed in the context of management development. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of the results uncovered implications for organisations and individuals seeking to develop management and leadership capabilities amongst managers of library and information services. Recruitment advertising seems to solicit applications for management positions on the grounds of evidence of professional development rather than evidence of management development. The implications of professional and management cultures for library management and leadership development are discussed. Further research questions on management development in a library setting are proposed.