Team Leader Modern Britain

The National Archives - Collections Expertise & Engagement

Closing date: Sunday 22nd February 2026 at midnight

Are you passionate about archives and the stories they tell? The National Archives is looking for someone to manage our team of Modern Britain records specialists, joining our Collections Expertise & Engagement department, where we use our expert knowledge to inspire audiences and make them think differently about archives.

In this role, you will have a records specialism in one or more of the political, diplomatic, government, social, legal, or economic history of Britain post-1782, as this relates to collections held at The National Archives. You will be expected to develop a deep understanding of these collections and develop specialist knowledge of records of public inquiries which have been transferred to The National Archives or will be in the future.

Your work will involve advising a wide range of audiences — from the general public to academics and government departments — on how to access and interpret these records. You will collaborate across teams to deliver public engagement programmes, academic research and corporate activities.

This is a dynamic role that blends research and public engagement; you will also be expected to contribute to our day-to-day public advisory service, dealing with enquiries from the public at Kew and online.

We are looking for someone with a higher degree in a relevant field or equivalent experience, a strong knowledge of modern British records post-1782, and management experience. You should have an active research profile, excellent communication skills, and a proven ability to engage both specialist and non-specialist audiences. A collaborative mindset is essential.

This role is based at our Kew site, with flexibility for some home working. You may also need to travel to government departments and be available for occasional evening events.

If you are ready to help shape how the public engages with records related to modern Britain, we would love to hear from you.

This is a full time post. However, requests for part-time working, flexible working and job share will be considered, taking into account at all times the operational needs of the Department.

A combination of onsite and home working is available and applicants should be able to regularly travel to our Kew site for a minimum of 60% of their work time.

For full details and to apply, please click the “Apply” button on this page.