Director of the Historical Archives of the European Union - European University Institute

The Historical Archives of the European Union (HAEU) as part of the European University Institute (EUI) is seeking an inspiring and forward-thinking leader with outstanding archival qualifications and solid knowledge of the European Union and European integration to manage the Historical Archives of the European Union, lead a multinational and diverse team of archivists, manage its budget and finances, and liaise with high-level stakeholders, including EU institutions, bodies and agencies and other depositing organisations. The Director will also promote and facilitate historical research on European integration and the European project, while enhancing public awareness, visibility and understanding of the Historical Archives of the European Union, its collections, and its mission. Finally, the Director will co-direct the Alcide De Gasperi Research Centre of the EUI.

The EUI at a glance: We are an international organisation set up in 1972; a research university focusing exclusively on post-graduate, doctoral, and post-doctoral studies, and advanced research, located in the hills overlooking the city of Florence, Italy. The Institute also hosts the Historical Archives of the European Union.

More on our Institution: https://www.eui.eu/About Reporting to the Secretary General of the European University Institute, the Director leads the Historical Archives of the European Union (HAEU), manages a team of 17 highly skilled professionals, and liaises with depositing European institutions. The selected candidate also acts as Co-direct of the Alcide De Gasperi Research Centre (ADGC).

The main responsibilities of the role include:

Expertise & Strategic Insight:

The Director acts as subject matter specialist, staying abreast of best practice in archival science, digital innovation in the field, including Artificial Intelligence, and research trends in European integration history. They define the vision, mission, strategy and objectives of the Historical Archives of the European Union and contribute to the EUI’s overall strategy by advising senior management.

External Leadership & Institutional Representation:

The Director represents the HAEU externally, strengthens the visibility, public recognition and impact of the HAEU’s operations, and acts as a leading advocate for historical research on European integration and the European project. They communicate and engage with the public by organising events, open days, and educational and cultural activities. They also organise workshops on archival science and practice in the European Union, and host academic workshops and conferences on the history of European Union and European integration. Furthermore, they negotiate and liaise with high-level stakeholders in EU institutions, bodies and agencies, and other European organisations and individuals that deposit their archives at the HAEU. As Co-director of the ADG, the Director partners with universities and research institutes, and contributes to the preparation of applications and the management of research grants

Governance, Autonomy & Accountability:

Under the supervision of the Secretary General of the EUI, the Director provides reports on HAEU activities to EU institutions, depositors and the general public. They operate with a high level of autonomy and are fully accountable for the work performance and financial compliance of the Historical Archives of the European Union.

People Leadership & Organisational Development:

The Director supervises, manages and develops the staff of the HAEU. They oversee staff leadership, assessment and professional development, and ensure effective management of people, budgets and programme activities. For the ADG, they contribute to the Centre’s work programme, staff and budget management, in cooperation with the Co-director.

Financial Stewardship & Resource Management:

The Director acts as authorising officer by sub-delegation and is responsible for the implementation of the HAEU budget. They establish and execute the annual budget and work programme, and sign annual reports.

Operational Oversight & Regulatory Compliance:

The Director supervises the work programmes, projects and operations of the Historical Archives of the European Union. They define, in close cooperation with the Secretariat General of the European Commission, the HAEU’s strategic objectives within the multi-annual Framework Partnership Agreement, ensuring that all activities of the HAEU fully conform with applicable regulations and uphold the highest standards of archival practice, institutional transparency and public accountability.

What we offer:

A role in an inspiring community of young scholars with an exclusive focus on master, doctoral and post-doctoral studies;

A truly multicultural community of 1100 academics at all career stages and an administrative staff of approximately 85 different nationalities.

The commitment to a genuine culture of equality, diversity and inclusion, and to attracting, encouraging and retaining a diverse and highly qualified workforce;

A world-class research library, the Historical Archives of the European Union, and many other excellent research facilities;

Language courses and soft skills training opportunities;

Access to all EUI facilities: library, crèche, cafeteria, gym, participation in seminars and workshops;

Competitive salary package including health and pension plan;

A healthy work-life balance in a family-friendly environment.

The deadline for applications is 23 September 2026 at 23:59 CEST.

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