At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the technology strategy to modernise and secure national records.
- Company: The National Archives, preserving the UK's history for over 1,000 years.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and the chance to shape national infrastructure.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on how we protect and share the nation's story.
- Qualifications: Experience in technology leadership within complex environments.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on innovation and sustainability.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 ÂŁ per year.
Join The National Archives—the official archive and publisher for the UK Government and custodian of over 1,000 years of records—and lead the technology strategy that underpins how we preserve, protect and share the nation’s story. We’re at the beginning of a three-year funded programme to renew our technology. The goals are to build organisational resilience, improve productivity, provide a world class digital experience for users, and to seize the opportunities presented by artificial intelligence, all whilst keeping essential public services running every day. This is a Fixed Term Appointment for 1 year with the possibility of extension/permanency.
What you’ll do:
- Own, develop and evolve The National Archives’ Technology Strategy and Architecture, aligning services to user needs and organisational outcomes.
- Lead technology governance and assurance in line with the Digital Functional Standard, Cyber Security Standard, and Technology Code of Practice.
- Drive an incremental approach to displacing legacy systems—breaking down monoliths and guiding delivery teams, putting in place a transitional architecture.
- Oversee cyber security and resilience as strategic priorities, ensuring Security by Design and operating effective second line of defence controls.
- Lead cross organisation AI strategy, governance, and adoption enabling innovation whilst managing risks.
- Champion open standards, open source, and cloud-native approaches, improving sustainability, whilst mitigating the risks of vendor lock-in.
What we’re looking for:
You’re a technology leader with enterprise-scale experience (ideally in a complex public-sector or regulated environment). You can set a clear strategic direction, influence senior stakeholders, and help multidisciplinary teams deliver secure, resilient, user-centred services. Based at Kew, with hybrid working available (60% on site). If you’re excited by modernising national infrastructure, strengthening cyber security, and making responsible use of AI—while safeguarding records for generations—apply now.
Head of Technology Strategy employer: The National Archives, UK
Contact Detail:
The National Archives, UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Technology Strategy
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend tech meetups, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio or a personal website that highlights your achievements and projects related to technology strategy. This is your chance to demonstrate how you can lead and innovate in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching The National Archives and understanding their current tech landscape. Be ready to discuss how your vision aligns with their goals, especially around AI and cyber security—show them you’re the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search—so go ahead and hit that apply button!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Technology Strategy
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the Head of Technology Strategy role. Highlight your enterprise-scale experience and how it relates to the goals of The National Archives.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: We want to see how you've influenced senior stakeholders and led multidisciplinary teams in the past. Use examples that demonstrate your ability to set strategic direction and deliver user-centred services.
Emphasise Your Technical Knowledge: Don’t forget to mention your familiarity with technology governance, cyber security, and AI strategies. We’re looking for someone who can drive innovation while managing risks, so make sure to highlight relevant experiences.
Apply Through Our Website: For a smooth application process, we encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at The National Archives, UK
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest technology trends, especially around AI and cyber security. Brush up on how these technologies can be applied in a public-sector context, as this will show your understanding of the role and its challenges.
✨Align with Their Vision
Familiarise yourself with The National Archives’ mission and recent initiatives. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals of improving user experience and organisational resilience through technology.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask you to solve hypothetical problems related to legacy systems or cyber security. Think about your past experiences and how you’ve tackled similar challenges, and be prepared to share specific examples.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a technology leader, you’ll need to influence and guide multidisciplinary teams. Prepare to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you’ve successfully led teams through change, particularly in complex environments.