Archive Collections Manager

Introduction

At Burberry, we believe creativity opens spaces. Our purpose is to unlock the power of imagination to push boundaries and open new possibilities for our people, our customers and our communities. This belief has guided Burberry since 1856 and remains central to how we operate today.

We aim to create an environment where creative minds from different backgrounds can thrive, bringing diverse skills and experiences to everything we do. As a purposeful, values-driven brand, we are committed to creating the next generation of sustainable luxury, driving industry change and championing our communities.

Job Purpose

We are seeking an experienced Archive Collections Manager to provide specialist leadership in the management, care and preservation of Burberry's historically significant archive collection.

The role will oversee collections across multiple locations, including historic garments, accessories, objects, photographs, ephemera and contemporary runway pieces. Providing specialist guidance to the Archive team and expert support to Design, Product, Creative and Brand Protection, the Archive Collections Manager will balance business needs with the long-term preservation of the collection.

Responsibilities

• Lead the management, care, documentation and audit of Burberry's archive collections, maintaining professional standards in handling, storage, preservation and security.
• Oversee preventive conservation, risk assessments, specialist treatments, emergency and salvage plans, insurance and collection valuations.
• Manage the acquisition of historic and contemporary collections, ensuring complete runway handovers, provenance research and accurate cataloguing.
• Lead the technical delivery of loans, exhibitions, shoots, international shipments and storage projects, including condition reporting, specialist handling, transport and installation.
• Own collections operations, management systems, policies and procedures, driving efficiency and providing specialist training and guidance to the Archive team.
• Provide collections expertise and research support to Design, Product, Styling, Brand Protection and wider business teams.

Personal Profile

• Proven experience managing and preserving significant collections within an archive, museum, heritage or related environment.
• Strong practical knowledge of collections care, preventive conservation, condition assessment, handling and preservation of historic and fragile objects.
• Knowledge of historic collections and materials, with an understanding of fashion, design and cultural heritage.
• Experience using collections management systems and managing audits, risk assessments and professional collections procedures.
• Strong specialist leadership and independent professional judgement, with the ability to train colleagues and uphold high collections-care standards.
• Excellent organisational, communication and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.