Emma Markiewicz has been appointed as the new Director of the London Metropolitan Archives (LMA).
She takes over from Acting Directors Charlotte Scott and Tim Harris on February 14.
The internationally-renowned LMA, which is run by the City of London Corporation, is the largest civic archive in the UK. It has 100 kilometres of archives on its Clerkenwell site in east London.
It documents 1,000 years of the London’s history and works across the capital with community groups to support archive heritage at grassroots level. Its oldest document, the Charter of William I, dates back to 1067.
So far, 12 million digitised images of its document pages have been placed online, attracting 47 million page impressions and views every year.
Emma joins from The National Archives (TNA) based in Kew, south-west London, where she worked for 15 years. She led a team working with archives organisations across the country, championing their work and providing training and guidance.
Her roles at the TNA included Head of Collections and Engagement and Head of Programmes. Before joining the organisation, she was an archaeologist.
Incoming Director of the City of London Corporation’s London Metropolitan Archives, Emma Markiewicz, said:
“I am delighted to be joining the LMA. Its collections are unrivalled, and it tells the story of the most exciting, dynamic, and historic city in the world.
“The LMA has a huge reputation in the archives sector for its valuable and innovative work with communities.
“I am looking forward to meeting colleagues, volunteers, partner organisations and community stakeholders to work together to realise our vision and aspirations for the institution.”
Chair of the City of London Corporation’s Culture, Heritage and Libraries Committee, Wendy Hyde, said:
“We are thrilled to welcome someone of Emma’s expertise and experience.
“The LMA’s vision is to ensure that as many people as possible have access to the archives in its care on site and digitally, safeguarding knowledge, improving understanding, inspiring participation, and supporting good public governance. We will do everything we can to support that aim.”
The City Corporation, which owns and manages LMA, is the fourth largest funder of heritage and cultural activities in the UK and invests over £130m every year.
In partnership with the Barbican, Guildhall School of Music & Drama, London Symphony Orchestra, and Museum of London, the City Corporation is leading the development of Culture Mile between Farringdon and Moorgate, a multi-million-pound initiative to create a new cultural and creative destination for London.
