Vacancy for Head of Special Collections at University of Bristol

Digital Preservation Coalition; Bristol; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Bristol seeks a Head of Special Collections to lead the management and development of its valuable archives and rare books. This role offers a unique opportunity to impact teaching, learning, and cultural partnerships while fostering innovative practices in a dynamic library environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in managing special collections and archives.
• Proven leadership in a library or cultural institution.
• Knowledge of accreditation standards.

Responsibilities

• Manage and develop Special Collections to support teaching and research.
• Lead a team of specialists and ensure compliance with standards.
• Drive innovative practices and accessibility for diverse communities.

Skills

Leadership

Collection management

Digital innovation

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Masters in Library and Information Science or related field

Job description

Vacancy for Head of Special Collections at University of Bristol

1 March 2023

Bristol

Full-Time

The role

This is an exciting opportunity to work as part of the University of Bristol’s Library Services leadership team. The role holder will be responsible for the management and development of Special Collections. They will ensure the Collection plays an active role in supporting teaching and learning, serving as an academic research resource for internal and external users, and acting as a catalyst for developing cultural and civic partnerships. They will lead the team delivering the service and ensure the highest standards of collection care for this internationally important collection of archives and rare books. The role involves working closely with other Heads of Collections within the Culture and Collection Group to help the Library and University realize their Vision and strategy, including plans for a new flagship University Library.

What will you be doing?

The position involves developing collections, facilities, and services to create academic, creative, and social impact across diverse user communities. The role holder will provide leadership to a team of specialists (archivists, librarians, digitisation technicians, etc.), ensuring compliance with professional standards (e.g., accreditation) and fostering innovative professional practices. They will leverage digital opportunities and the Cultural Collections’ Audience Development Roadmap to keep the collection relevant, discoverable, and accessible to academic, cultural, creative, and public communities.