Welcome

Thank you for your interest in Black Cultural Archives (BCA), the home of Black British history. We are proud to be one of the most important cultural institutions in the UK and we are now at a turning point. This is a crucial leadership moment for BCA, as we recruit both a new Chair and a new Managing Director to work together to realise our long-term vision.

Founded in 1981 by community leaders including Len Garrison, BCA was created as a space where people – especially young people – could find positive representations of themselves in history and culture. That founding impulse remains at the heart of everything we do. Today, our work is more relevant than ever: we hold the only nationally significant collection dedicated to the histories of African and Caribbean people in Britain, and we continue to be a trusted voice in education, research, heritage and community life.

We have an ambitious strategy in place, and a talented, passionate team who are ready to bring it to life. Our strategy focuses on achieving financial sustainability, growing our cultural and educational impact, and becoming more resilient and entrepreneurial in how we work.

The person we appoint as Managing Director will play a defining role in shaping that future. We are looking for a leader who is strategic and pragmatic, calm under pressure, emotionally intelligent and deeply committed to our mission. Someone who understands the value of working in partnership – with trustees, team members, funders, and the communities we serve – and who can steer a respected but complex organisation through a period of meaningful change.

This is a special opportunity to lead one of the most culturally and historically significant institutions in Britain and to build a legacy that will impact generations to come.

We are excited to meet candidates who share our belief in the transformative power of Black British history and who are ready to lead with purpose, courage and care.

With warmest thanks, BCA Board of Trustees