Archives Accreditation Adviser – sponsorship available

Job Description

About the Welsh Government’s Recruitment Approach

The Welsh Government operates name-free recruitment, meaning personal information such as names and addresses are not visible to the selection panel during shortlisting. This ensures a fair and unbiased process, supporting equality, diversity, and inclusion in all appointments.

About the Role

The Archives Accreditation Adviser will lead the administration and delivery of the Archive Service Accreditation scheme in Wales, supporting local archive services in achieving and maintaining accreditation standards.

The postholder will also hold responsibility for statutory duties under Section 60 of the Local Government (Wales) Act 1994 and will work closely with The National Archives (UK) regarding Places of Deposit under the Public Records Act 1958.

This role sits within the Culture Division, which acts as the development agency for local archive services, providing guidance, funding, and policy direction for the sector.

Main Responsibilities

Provide expert policy advice to Ministers on local archive provision and support the development of national strategies for archives.

Administer the Archive Service Accreditation scheme in Wales, conducting advisory and validation visits and attending Accreditation Panel meetings.

Manage the Welsh Government’s responsibilities under Section 60 of the Local Government (Wales) Act 1994.

Liaise with The National Archives to maintain Wales’s Places of Deposit system under the Public Records Act 1958.

Develop and manage programmes and projects to strengthen the archive sector, particularly around digital access, public engagement, and inclusion.

Monitor and manage budgets and report on associated expenditure.

Advise on and assess funding applications submitted to Welsh Government and other funding bodies.

Represent the Welsh Government on sector-wide working groups (e.g. the Records at Risk Group and ARA Volunteering Awards).

Maintain a strong evidence base for archive sector policy development.

Draft ministerial briefings, responses, and correspondence as required.

Support the designation of new public record bodies and advise government colleagues on archival matters.

Line manage staff as required and contribute to broader team leadership and cross-divisional priorities.

Development Opportunities

This is a high-profile, externally facing role offering wide-ranging opportunities for professional growth and networking.

You will:

Gain in-depth understanding of best practices in archive management and accreditation across the UK.

Lead innovative sector development projects, including initiatives focused on digital access, equality, and wellbeing.

Develop expertise in policy, research, and funding processes.

Work collaboratively with local authorities, archives, and cultural organisations across Wales and beyond.

About You

You will be a proactive and knowledgeable professional, able to work independently and collaboratively with a wide range of partners. You should demonstrate:

Experience or strong interest in archives management, heritage policy, or cultural development.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to advise senior stakeholders.

Proven ability to manage projects and budgets effectively.

Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

A collaborative and inclusive working style.

A willingness to travel across Wales and the UK as required (a clean driving licence is advantageous).

Additional Information

The role involves travel for site visits, events, and meetings, with occasional overnight stays.

A reserve list may be held for similar future vacancies (valid for 12 months).

This post is open to international applicants who meet the Civil Service Nationality Rules and right-to-work requirements.

Visa Sponsorship

Sponsorship under the Skilled Worker Visa route may be available.

The minimum salary requirement for sponsorship is £41,700 per year.

Only candidates appointed at the top of the pay scale (£43,759) will automatically meet this threshold.

Candidates earning below this level may still qualify if they meet the “new entrant” or PhD-related salary thresholds.

Applicants should check eligibility on the UK Visas and Immigration website
before applying.

How to Apply

Submit a CV (maximum two pages) detailing your career history, key responsibilities, and achievements.
Ensure your CV aligns with the Purpose of Post and Key Tasks sections of this description.