Head of Special Collections and Archives

Competitive remuneration and benefits

University College Cork (UCC), ranked among the top 2% of universities globally, is known for its academic excellence, research innovation and student-centred approach. Located in Cork city, UCC fosters a vibrant and inclusive environment that supports intellectual growth, cultural diversity and collaboration across research, industry and community.

UCC Library plays a central role in supporting teaching, learning and research across the University. Aligned with UCC’s 2023–2028 Strategic Plan Securing our Future, the Library is entering an ambitious period of transformation. We are now seeking a Head of Special Collections and Archives to provide strategic leadership in the stewardship, preservation and promotion of UCC’s rare, unique and culturally significant collections.

In this senior leadership role, you will guide a specialist team and oversee a dynamic service that includes rare books, manuscripts, archives, photographic collections and other historical materials. You will shape the long-term direction of Special Collections and Archives by driving collection development, delivering digital transformation and ensuring exceptional preservation and access. You will champion the integration of collections within teaching and research, lead an innovative outreach programme and cultivate strong relationships with donors, academics and external partners.

The ideal candidate will bring extensive expertise in rare and distinct collections, with a deep understanding of preservation, conservation and service development in an academic or research environment. You will have a strong record of leadership, with the ability to inspire teams, manage complex projects and deliver high-quality services. Excellent communication, analytical skills and the ability to influence, negotiate and build strong relationships are essential.

This is a unique opportunity to lead one of Ireland’s most significant special collections and to contribute to the university’s mission of advancing knowledge, culture and scholarship. If you are ready to shape the future of Special Collections and Archives at UCC, we encourage you to apply.

Further information is available at www.andersonquigley.com/ucc-collections.

Closing date for applications is noon, Tuesday 27 January 2026.

University College Cork is committed to being a fully inclusive global university which actively recruits, supports and retains colleagues from all sectors of society. Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) are core values under our Strategic Plan. UCC holds a Bronze Athena SWAN award  in recognition of our commitment to advancing equality in higher education. We value diversity as well as celebrate, support and thrive on the contributions of all our employees and the communities they represent.  We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from everybody, regardless of age, care-giving status, disability, ethnicity, gender and/or gender identity or expression status, nationality, marital status/civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion/creed, and/or sexual orientation. We are committed to supporting all staff through flexible working schemes, family-friendly policies, training and development, and staff networks. We value the enrichment that comes from a diverse community and seek to promote equality, prevent discrimination and protect the human rights of each individual in line with equality legislation. We encourage applicants to consult our Dignity and Respect Policy and learn more about our EDI related initiatives.