Director of Research and Collections
Job purpose
The National Archives sits at the heart of a diverse network of archives made up of thousands of
archives, each with its own unique history.
This executive role will shape and drive forward The National Archives as leader and partner for the
archive sector in England, actively making the case for archives as a vital part of the nation’s
heritage, sustaining and developing the nation’s archival collections.
The role is also responsible for developing The National Archives’ research strategy and services for
academics; forging strong links with the academic sector, and setting clear research priorities, whilst
fostering the environment for a thriving multi-disciplinary collections based research culture.
This role shapes and drives our collective approach to the care, conservation and enhancement of
our national collections which are at the heart of the academic and archival sectors.
As part of the Executive Team
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Lead The National Archives effectively as an ambitious, visionary and dynamic organisation
in a rapidly changing environment and challenging economic circumstances.
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Further enhance and develop relationships with our diverse audiences in an era of increasing
expectations.
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Be an active member of the wider Senior Civil Service, working with colleagues across
government but also especially across the archive and academic sectors.
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Develop the organisation’s capability by utilising the talent of all staff, ensuring they have
the skills and leadership necessary for the future.
Key responsibilities
Leadership
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Grow skills and talent within The National Archives, giving direction and leadership to
nurture and encourage a vigorous research culture across the organisation.
Provide executive support to the Chief Executive and Keeper in his role as Historical
Manuscripts Commissioner and in leading and developing the wider archive sector.
Expand our national and international reputation for pioneering research in line with our
status as an Independent Research organisation.
Continue to build on our reputation as leaders in the conservation and care of archival
collections, both physical and digital.
Research
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Oversee the development of a dynamic and ambitious research programme that aligns with
corporate priorities and challenges, and transforms scholarship into tangible benefits for The
National Archives, and the wider archive sector.
Establish strong relationships with funding bodies and other organisations to identify and
maximise grant opportunities and attract external funding.
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Leverage our current research reputation for physical and digital preservation, historical
research and data science to develop funding success.
Shape a programme of world-class digital research.
Establish a renowned research centre to co-ordinate and galvanise our long-term research
programme, foster a culture of active research and inquiry across the organisation.
Forge robust relationships across the higher education, research and archive sectors, and
respond to their changing needs.
Collections
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Ensure the appropriate processes are in place to safeguard and care for The National
Archives’ collection.
In collaboration with other directorates oversee the development and implementation of a
collections enhancement strategy which embraces clear intellectual and cultural purposes
and maximises the identification, good management and unique value of the nation’s
collections.
Establish and maintain organisation/sector wide principles of best practice for document
handling, display and storage.
Ensure we continue to develop fit for purpose models for the effective management of
loans, including the opportunity to raise our profile.
Work with sector and professional bodies to develop good collections practice and share
knowledge.
Archive Sector
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Continue to develop a strategic approach to promote the archival health of the nation.
Be a strong advocate for the sector to raise awareness of the importance and potential of
archives.
Engage and collaborate with other archives to sustain vibrant collections and services.
Develop the funding and investment capacity and opportunities of the sector to increase its
financial sustainability.
Encourage creativity, good practice and knowledge sharing through programmes, surveys,
tools and guidance.
Oversee The National Archives’ performance as Historical Manuscripts Commissioner.
Person specification
Essential
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High level of academic qualifications or higher research degree (ideally a post-graduate
archival qualification), with a demonstrable record of scholarly achievement, in a relevant
field.
Knowledge of and/or experience of working in the archive sector.
Knowledge of scholarly funding processes and a strong track record of raising funds from
grant giving organisations, university o other research environments both nationally and
internationally.
Strong experience of strategy development.
A proven ability to drive innovation and deliver transformational change.
Very strong networking and influencing skills.
Ability to deliver through others and ensure strong buy-in to concepts and ideas.
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Leadership skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate people.
Very strong communication experience.
Desirable
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Sufficiently digitally literate and capable to effectively engage staff and stakeholders to help
shape and lead a programme of wold class digital research.