Explore careers

Useful experience for records advisers includes:

• work in archives, document storage or information management
• experience with information technology (IT)
• work as a librarian.

Records advisers may do some or all of the following:

• develop and maintain classification structures, systems and policies for electronic or paper-based records systems
• file, track, retrieve, review and dispose of records
• educate and support staff in good record-keeping
• audit record-keeping systems
  
• ensure their organisation's record keeping complies with standards and laws
  
• work with old and new technology media
  
• lead projects to turn paper records into electronic ones (digitisation).

Records advisers needed to fulfil legal requirements

There will always be a demand for people with skills in records and information management due to legal requirements. The law requires government departments and other public sector organisations, such as district health boards and education providers, to keep certain records. 

According to the Census, 255 records advisers worked in New Zealand in 2018.

Significant events influence record adviser demand

Demand for experienced records advisers can increase when significant events occur. Government inquiries into matters of public importance generate records that need to be collated, managed and protected over the long term.

Historical events, such as New Zealand's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, also generate large volumes of records that need to be accessible for future generations. 

Technology skills in demand

Employers are more likely to hire records advisers who can work with digital information systems. The skillset for records advisers now includes a strong IT component due to the increase in cloud storage systems, artificial intelligence and data analytics.

Types of employers varied

Records advisers may work for:

• government agencies
• legal firms
• district health boards
• universities and polytechnics
• private businesses.

ARANZ - Archives and Records Association of New Zealand

www.aranz.org.nz

Records and Information Management Professionals Australasia

0800 400 625 - nz.branch@rimpa.com.au - www.rimpa.com.au

Records advisers may move into knowledge and information management roles.

Records advisers need to have:

• planning and organisational skills
• the ability to work alone and with a wide range of people
• excellent communication skills, both written and oral
• good problem-solving skills
• the ability to keep information private
• patience and persistence.