Historic England Advisory Committee

Summary

Our purpose at Historic England is to improve people’s lives by championing and protecting the historic environment. Through our work, collaboration, creativity and expertise we want everyone to be able to connect with and learn from our heritage.

Historic England are pleased to announce we are currently seeking to broaden the membership of the Historic England Advisory Committee (HEAC) and we have four membership opportunities available.

You will have the opportunity to join The Historic England Advisory Committee who provide expert advice to staff and the Commission on Historic England's functions under the National Heritage Act 1983, and other relevant legislation, in particular on policy matters and casework (excluding London) where it is novel, contentious or sets a precedent. 

 We are seeking candidates with expertise in any of the following disciplines to join us:

·       Archaeology

·       Urban Archaeology and Regeneration

·       Conservation architecture

·       Historic landscape

·       Architectural History

·       Planning & local government

·       Place-making

 We are also seeking expertise in the management of World Heritage Sites, and experience of the approach taken to these by ICOMOS and UNESCO.

 It’s an exciting time to join The Historic England Advisory Committee as we are committed to our six priorities as part of our Corporate Strategy plan:

 1. Levelling Up

2. Inclusion, Diversity and Equality

3. Planning, Listing, Conservation Advice and Investment

4. Climate Action

5. Stewardship of the National Collections

6. Developing Historic England

Read more about our Corporate Strategy plan: https://historicengland.org.uk/about/what-we-do/corporate-plan/

 At Historic England we’re always looking for new ways to promote the past in ways that are inclusive to all and that celebrate the cultural diversity of England's heritage.

To do that, we need people with fresh perspectives, from all walks of life, to join us.

We believe that heritage is for everyone, and so are jobs in the heritage sector. As an equal opportunities’ employer, we're working hard to improve diversity in our workforce. We welcome and encourage job applications from people of all backgrounds. We particularly encourage applications from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic candidates and candidates with disabilities as they are underrepresented within Historic England at this level.

What you will be required to do:

•  As a member you will be required to attend approximately six meetings each year.  Meetings are usually of half-day duration and take place in the afternoon.  Additional meetings are sometimes required, and these will usually be virtual.

• Site visits take place before meetings, on dates fixed in advance.  Each is attended by a small group of members.  Site visits are generally of a day’s duration and are undertaken two weeks prior to the meeting itself.

• Members should expect to attend most meetings, and to join at least one site visits beforehand. 

• Sharing expertise with other HEAC members and Historic England staff.

• Participation in occasional day conferences and seminars to assist in Historic England’s strategic development.

Skills, knowledge and experience

• Beyond experience of the areas of expertise and interest outlined above, no formal qualification or professional status is required to fulfill the role. Candidates should, however, be able to demonstrate a willingness to challenge constructively, operate as part of a committee and be able to work alongside a broad range of professionals.

How to apply

Please apply by sending a covering letter/email and CV to governance@historicengland.org.uk

In your covering letter/email please briefly outline (in no more than 250 words for each) these areas:

• Why being a part of the Historic England Advisory Committee at Historic England interests you?

• The skills, knowledge and experience you possess that are specifically relevant to your application

• How you have inspired change or a key issue within your working career in the historic environment

The deadline for applications is midday on 31st July 2023

Please note that these positions are not remunerated, although all reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

Appointments are made by the Chairman of Historic England following appropriate interviews and in line with the Government’s seven principles of public life (The ‘Nolan Principles’) https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-7-principles-of-public-life/the-7-principles-of-public-life--2 .

Appointed candidates will serve an initial term of three years.

Interviews will be conducted in person (or virtually) and held on Friday 1st September and Tuesday 5th September

We regret that those candidates who are not shortlisted will not be given feedback.

We are an equal opportunity employer which values diversity and inclusion. If you have a disability or neurodiversity, we would be happy to discuss reasonable adjustments to the role with you. Please note this is a voluntary position and our company benefits do not apply.