Archivist

Responsibilities

• The Archivist is responsible for the development, care, access to and interpretation of all archives held by Leeds Museums and Galleries, including the archive of sculptors' papers at Henry Moore Institute.
• The Archivist will work closely with colleagues across Leeds Museums and Galleries (LMG) and the Henry Moore Institute (HMI) to consider how the archive of sculptors' papers may be best utilised and accessed. This may be future exhibitions, learning or display proposals which support the best possible presentation of the archive and the access needs of audiences while ensuring the care of the archive.
• The role is integral to both the Collections & Programmes team within Leeds Museums & Galleries and colleagues at the Henry Moore Institute. Working collaboratively with colleagues across Leeds Museums and Galleries, Leeds City Council, external partners and communities to maximise the impact of our programmes and the experiences of our audiences is an important aspect of the role.
• To develop exhibitions, events and engagement initiatives in order to appeal to all sections of the community and visitors to the city.
• To provide archival advice to the Service and partners, especially the Henry Moore Institute, with whom Leeds Museums and Galleries has a longstanding and significant partnership, as required.
• To be responsible for the care, maintenance and preservation of the archive of sculptors' papers both on display and in storage.
• To be responsible for the development of institutional archives relating to LMG in line with the Collections Development policy.
• Work with colleagues and undertake research, fieldwork and visits relevant to the archive collections and their documentation, development and interpretation.
• To liaise with other collections both locally and further afield holding related material and to cultivate appropriate relations with collectors.
• Work with the Registrar and Collections Manager to adhere to all agreed Collections Management standards and procedures.
• To catalogue the archive on the collections management database and in paper records.
• Respond to public, professional and academic enquiries and facilitate access to stored archive collections and records.
• Provide advice on acquisitions, loans and disposals in accordance with the Collections Development policy, prepare related funding applications and maintain and develop all necessary collection records both electronic and manual. Courier collection loans where necessary.
• Participate in setting up of exhibitions and displays including the hanging and placing of objects working with technicians, conservators and other colleagues as required.
• Work across LMG identifying and contributing to innovative collections-based projects.
• Research and write accessible texts for exhibitions, online platforms, marketing and other publications as appropriate.
• Promote the positive image of the Service at all times. Work with colleagues to advocate the value of the archive to key stakeholders, opinion formers, visitors and the people of Leeds through lectures, community work, tours, displays, publications, loans and online as appropriate.
• Maintain and develop partnerships with a wide range of institutions and organisations to further the Service's objectives, especially the Henry Moore Institute.
• Collaborate with colleagues in the other museum and archive services and participate in appropriate professional networks for self-development and to represent the Service.
• Participate in and where appropriate, lead, training for colleagues and volunteers.
• Work with the Commercial Team to maximise the commercial and merchandising opportunities offered by the archive collections.
• Be aware of and adhere to Leeds City Council Health and Safety Policy, being responsible for your own health and safety whilst at work and that of your colleagues and our visitors. Achieve recognised Health & Safety qualification specific to job need. Carry out risk assessments and implement safe systems of work as required.
• Promote and apply consistently the principles of Leeds City Council Equal Opportunities Policies both with colleagues and members of the public to ensure fair and equal access to services and opportunities.
• Undertake any other duties as commensurate with the grade.
• Understand and embrace Leeds City Council Values and Behaviours and codes of conduct.
• Committed to continuous improvement in all areas and work towards delivering the Best City Ambition of Health & Wellbeing, Inclusive Growth and Zero Carbon.
• Able to understand and observe Leeds City Council equality and diversity policies.
• Carry out all duties having regard to an employee's responsibility under Health and Safety policies.
• Willingness to actively participate in training and development activities.
• Flexible and adaptable to change to assist other services as required commensurate to grade.
• Participate in appraisal, training, and development activities.
• Be aware of and comply with Leeds City Council policies and…