Are you passionate about being updated on the relevant topics on archives, documentary heritage, and digital publishing? Do you have a flair for writing, editing, or content creation? The International Council on Archives (ICA) is seeking dedicated ICA members to become a part of our Editorial Committee (EC) for our upcoming digital magazine! 

About Flash: 

Flash provides news about ICA activities and highlights current archival issues. It complements the in-depth professional reflections, reports and exchanges published in Comma. The ICA publishes Flash twice a year as a membership benefit. 

What will you be doing?   

We are seeking 4 enthusiastic volunteers to join our EC and contribute their expertise to the development and production of the ICA’s digital magazine. As a member of the Editorial Committee, you will have the opportunity to: 

  • Shape the editorial direction and content themes of the magazine. 
  • Review and edit submissions for clarity, accuracy, and relevance. 
  • Contribute original articles, interviews, or multimedia content. 
  • Collaborate with fellow committee members and contributors to ensure high-quality content. 
  • Engage with ICA members and the wider archival community to promote the magazine and solicit contributions. 

What are we looking for?   

Ideal candidates will possess: 

  • Strong writing, editing, and communication skills. 
  • Knowledge of archival principles, practices, and trends. 
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a virtual team environment. 
  • Creativity, initiative, and a passion for advancing the archival and records management profession. 

What is the time commitment? 

As a member of the Editorial Committee for Flash, it’s important to understand the expected time commitment for this role. The Editors will each need to dedicate around 15-18 hours per month on average, depending on the production schedule. 

This time commitment includes: 

  1. Editorial Meetings: Participating in regular editorial meetings to discuss content ideas, review submissions, and plan upcoming issues. These meetings typically occur once or twice a month and may last 1-2 hours each. 
  2. Content Review and Editing: Reviewing and editing articles, interviews, and multimedia submissions for clarity, accuracy, and adherence to editorial standards. This may involve providing feedback to contributors and collaborating with fellow committee members to refine content. 
  3. Content Creation: Contributing original articles, interviews, or multimedia content to the magazine as needed. This may involve conducting research, interviews, or other content development tasks outside of scheduled meetings. 
  4. Communication and Collaboration: Engaging with fellow committee members, contributors, and ICA staff members via email, virtual meetings, and other communication channels to coordinate editorial activities and ensure timely publication of the magazine. 

We understand the importance of balancing volunteer commitments with other responsibilities, and we aim to create a flexible and manageable workload for our team members. The Editors will collaborate with the Executive Director and the Head of Communications and Partnerships of the ICA. 

Additionally, we are expecting that volunteers will be engaged for at least 2 issues of the magazine to ensure continuity and consistency in editorial oversight. This commitment helps to maintain the quality and momentum of the publication while allowing volunteers to contribute meaningfully to its success. 

And What About the Benefits? 

Joining the Editorial Committee offers a wealth of benefits beyond the fulfillment of contributing to a global archival publication. Here’s what you can expect to gain from this rewarding volunteer opportunity: 

  • Insight into the International Archival Community: As an Editor, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the dynamic world of international archives. Gain valuable insights into global archival practices, challenges, and innovations as you collaborate with colleagues from diverse backgrounds and regions. 
  • Networking Opportunities: Forge meaningful connections with archival professionals and enthusiasts from around the world. Engage in discussions, exchange ideas, and build relationships with fellow committee members, contributors, and ICA members, expanding your professional network and fostering collaboration across borders. 
  • Professional Development: Stay at the forefront of current issues, trends, and best practices in the archival field. Through your involvement in the editorial process, you’ll have the chance to explore new topics, deepen your knowledge, and enhance your skills in writing, editing, and digital publishing. 
  • Recognition and Visibility: Showcase your expertise and contributions to the archival community through your involvement in the digital magazine. Your work will be seen by a global audience of archival professionals, researchers, educators, and enthusiasts, raising your profile within the international archival community 

How can you apply? 

To apply for a volunteer position on the Editorial Committee, please submit the following to communications@ica.org 

  1. A short resume (CV)   
  2. A short cover letter describing why you want to become an EC member
  3. ICA membership number

Deadline for Applications: 

Please submit your application by 10 June 2024 (23:59 CET, Paris time). Selected candidates will be notified via email and invited to participate in an introductory meeting with the ICA Secretariat. 

Thank you for considering this volunteer opportunity. We look forward to receiving your applications and working together to make a meaningful impact on the global archival community through our digital magazine!  

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us at communications@ica.org