Job Description

Archives & Records Manager

Woburn | Full-time | Permanent

Preserve the past. Shape the legacy. Lead the future.

This is a rare and remarkable opportunity to take stewardship of one of the most historically significant private archives in the country.
The Bedford Estates is home to the Russell family, Dukes of Bedford, and spans a fascinating breadth of history, people and places, from Woburn Abbey, Woburn Safari Park and the Golf Club, to a vibrant portfolio of businesses and properties in Bedfordshire and central London. At the heart of it all lies a collection of records that traces political, agricultural, artistic and social history across centuries.
As we prepare for the reopening of Woburn Abbey, we are seeking a skilled and passionate

Archives & Records Manager

to lead the next chapter in the care and development of our archive and records function.
This is a leadership role reporting directly to the Duke of Bedford and the Trustees, working collaboratively with senior colleagues across the Estate. It is a role that requires not only a deep understanding of archival best practice and conservation but also the confidence to develop and deliver an Estate-wide strategy for records management in a modern, dynamic environment.
You will lead and grow a small team, shape the long-term structure and accessibility of our archive, and support departments with document retention and compliance. You will also support internal and external researchers, contribute to exhibitions and outreach, and help embed best practices that protect and preserve both heritage and operational records for generations to come.
We are looking for a qualified archives professional, with significant experience working with historic collections, ideally in a heritage, landed estate, or similar context. Familiarity with 16th and 17th century materials is important, as is confidence in environmental monitoring, cataloguing standards, and records legislation such as GDPR. Just as crucial is your ability to lead with care and integrity, work across disciplines, and excel in both the strategic and the practical aspects of archive work.
This is a full-time role based at Woburn, with occasional travel to other Bedford Estate sites and partner record offices.
If you are drawn to the idea of caring for a living archive, one that continues to evolve alongside a working estate, and you are looking to make your mark in a setting rich with heritage and possibility, we would love to hear from you.
Due to our remote location, you will need access to transport.All applications will be treated in confidence.Please ensure you upload a cover letter with your CV (they must both be on the same document).

Reference:

AUG20257785

Location:

Woburn

Job Type:

Permanent

Job Type Time:

Full Time

Salary:

Competitive

Closing Date:

Sun, Sep 7, 2025