Information and Access Compliance Researcher

Job summary

This post enables The National Archives to remain compliant with information rights legislation � the Freedom of Information Act and Data Protection Act � by undertaking work on Reclosure at The National Archives. Reclosure occurs when information in open records may be subsequently closed by The National Archives. It applies to records (including digital records) that have been transferred to The National Archives for permanent preservation. The circumstances in which this would be required are outlined in our published Reclosure Policy.

Job description

Full job description attached (see below).

Person specification

This role works closely with the Information & Access Compliance Lead in undertaking reviews into records flagged for Reclosure. Using your knowledge of information rights legislation, you will assess the scale of the work, undertake research, and review files to support access decisions made for these records. You will work closely with staff within the Freedom of Information Centre (in which this role is based) to ensure that there is a consistency of approach towards Reclosure and compliance.

This role will report to the Reclosure Panel, who are responsible for the reclosure of records. This is an internal Panel composed of staff with expertise in Freedom of Information (FOI) and Data Protection, along with records and catalogue specialists from across The National Archives. Reclosure cases need careful handling, with balanced and considered recommendations being put forward to the Reclosure Panel, to ensure that the appropriate action is taken and in a timely manner. An important part of this role will therefore be to keep those involved with Reclosure regularly informed of progress; you will need to judge when to escalate concerns to senior management, to ensure not just compliance, but to maintain a level of good customer service, while safeguarding TNA�s reputation.

Working within the Freedom of Information Centre, you will also be expected to carry out research into closed records held in the archive in response to FOI requests, assess whether exemptions apply to those records, and correspond with requesters. As a result, you will develop expert knowledge regarding the application of the FOI Act and related information rights legislation. Working to tight deadlines, the role requires you to have good decision making and communication skills, as well as the ability to organise a heavy workload.

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.

SC-level Security Clearance or willingness to obtain SC clearance is mandatory for this role and requires that you have lived in the UK for the last 3 years. The length of required residency may depend on individual circumstances.

How to apply:

If you are an internal applicant: please do not use the link on this page. Please apply via your employee Workday account.

If you are an external applicant: to submit your application please click the 'Apply at advertiser's site' button on this page.

You will be asked to provide details of your work experience and write a personal statement. In your personal statement please explain, using examples, how you meet the essential criteria given below. You may draw on knowledge, skills, abilities, experience gained from paid work, domestic responsibilities, education, leisure interests and voluntary activities. Please note selection for interview will largely be based on the information you provide in this section.

Essential criteria:

Degree in history or related subject, or significant relevant experience, demonstrating the ability to carry out research into records, analyse contents and summarise findings clearly and concisely.

High standard of communication, both written and verbal.

Good team-working skills and flexibility in approach to work, to meet targets.

Demonstrate ability to make decisions, using sound judgement, escalating issues as required.

Commitment to providing a professional service to the public and/or to other government departments.

Ability to work to deadlines, work well under pressure, and prioritise/balance demanding workloads.

Desirable criteria:

Knowledge of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 and related legislation.

High level of IT literacy, including strong knowledge of Microsoft Outlook, Excel, Word, and SharePoint.

Use of case management/tracking systems.

Project management experience.

Benefits

Alongside your salary of �28,337, The National Archives contributes �8,209 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Generous benefits package, including pension, sports and social club facilities, onsite gym, discounted rates at our on-site cafe and opportunities for training and development.

Any move to The National Archives from another employer will mean you can no longer access childcare vouchers. This includes moves between government departments. You may however be eligible for other government schemes, including Tax-Free Childcare. Determine your eligibility at ;