At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead access and retention services, manage library functions, and ensure compliance with copyright laws.
- Company: Join the Ministry of Justice's Knowledge Management Team in a vital role.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25-30 days annual leave, flexible working, and extensive training opportunities.
- Other info: Hybrid working arrangements available with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on information management while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in information management and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 € per year.
This role is part of the Knowledge Management Team within the Departmental Records Officer’s (DRO) Team, supporting the Ministry of Justice’s record, library and information management functions. Position is only available to candidates based in the UK.
Responsibilities
- Manage the access requests service, responding to requests from criminal justice professionals, victims of crime and other authorised users of closed records.
- Lead the retention service, including enquiry responses, regular review and updating of the Records Retention and Disposition Schedules (RRDS) across the MoJ and advising on strategic retention matters.
- Provide library services and oversee the MoJ Library’s supplier contracts.
- Deliver copyright services to ensure compliance with copyright law and keep the organisation informed on AI and copyright developments.
- Build and maintain effective relationships with stakeholders across the organisation and external public bodies.
- Support the MoJ Librarians’ Community of Practice and deputise for the Head of Knowledge Management (KM) and Deputy Departmental Records Officer (DDRO) as required.
- Line-manage a team of five staff.
- Carry out any other duties commensurate with grade.
Essential Skills
- Qualification or extensive experience in information and records management.
- Holding or working toward a professional qualification or membership of ARA, CILIP or IRMS.
- Thorough understanding of the Public Records Act, Freedom of Information Act and GDPR.
- Proven track record of leading and motivating teams, improving engagement and service delivery responsiveness.
- Excellent communication skills, including influencing senior stakeholders and communicating complex issues clearly.
Desirable Skills
- Experience managing library contracts and services.
- Experience managing a budget and delivering value for money services.
- Strong behaviours, strengths, ability and experience aligned with the role’s requirements.
- Technical competence in relevant professional skills and knowledge.
Working Arrangements
The role offers hybrid working arrangements where business needs allow. The successful candidate will work from a base location, MoJ sites, or from home, with a minimum of 60% of working time spent in an office.
Probation
All external candidates are required to pass a minimum of six months probation; internal candidates are subject to probation if they have not previously completed it within the MoJ.
Security Clearance
Minimum security level: Security Check (SC).
Benefits
- Annual leave: 25 days on appointment, increasing to 30 days after five years of service; options to buy or sell up to three days of leave each year.
- Public holidays and one privilege day.
- Pro-rated leave for part-time and job-share posts.
- Pension: choice of Civil Service pension schemes.
- Training: extensive range of staff development opportunities.
- Family-friendly policies including reduced hours and job sharing.
- Access to flexible benefits such as voluntary benefits, retail vouchers and discounts.
Head of Access, Retention & Library employer: Ministry of Justice
The Ministry of Justice is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee development and well-being. With a commitment to flexible working arrangements and a comprehensive benefits package, including generous annual leave and pension options, employees are empowered to thrive both professionally and personally. This role not only provides the opportunity to lead a dedicated team but also to engage with key stakeholders in a meaningful way, making a significant impact within the realm of information management.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Access, Retention & Library
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join online forums, or even reach out to folks on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Ace the Informal Chat
If you get the chance for an informal chat or coffee meeting, take it! This is your chance to showcase your personality and passion for the role. Be prepared to discuss your experience and how it aligns with the job.
✨Showcase Your Skills
During interviews, don’t just talk about your qualifications—demonstrate your skills! Use real-life examples to show how you've tackled challenges in information management or led teams effectively.
✨Follow Up with Flair
After your interview, send a thank-you email to express your appreciation. Mention something specific from your conversation to remind them of your fit for the role. It shows you're genuinely interested and keeps you top of mind!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Access, Retention & Library
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in information and records management. We want to see how your skills align with the responsibilities of managing access requests and leading retention services.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves influencing senior stakeholders, it's crucial to demonstrate your excellent communication skills. Use examples from your past experiences where you’ve successfully communicated complex issues clearly.
Highlight Team Leadership Experience:We’re looking for someone who can lead and motivate a team. Be sure to include specific instances where you’ve improved engagement and service delivery responsiveness within your teams.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensure you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ministry of Justice
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the Public Records Act, Freedom of Information Act, and GDPR. Being able to discuss these laws confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with them, but that you understand their implications in the context of the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Think about specific situations where you improved engagement or service delivery. This will help demonstrate your ability to motivate and manage a team effectively.
✨Build Relationships
Since this role involves liaising with various stakeholders, think about how you can illustrate your relationship-building skills. Have anecdotes ready that showcase your ability to influence senior stakeholders and communicate complex issues clearly.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Expect questions about managing library contracts and budget management. Brush up on your technical knowledge and be prepared to discuss how you’ve delivered value for money in previous roles. This will highlight your competence in relevant professional skills.
