Today’s ‘Hidden Gems’ features Ramon Voges, who is responsible for communications, partnerships and outreach at the Secret State Archives;
Photo: SPK / L. Killisch
How long have you been with the SPK, and what are your responsibilities?
I have been working at the Secret State Archives of the Prussian Cultural Heritage Foundation since September 2024, in a rather unusual role: as an advisor to the management, I am not based within one of the three archive departments, but rather as part of the management team directly under the directorate.
This unique position at the interface between the strategic development of the Secret State Archive and day-to-day operations makes my work extremely varied and diverse: I manage and coordinate the Secret State Archive’s third-party funded and collaborative projects. In addition, I plan and organise events and further develop our public relations work to increase the visibility of the archive and its exceptional collections. I am responsible for outreach work, particularly in collaboration with universities or academic research institutions such as the Berlin-Brandenburg Academy of Sciences and Humanities or the Historical Commission of Berlin. This also includes overseeing the scholarship programmes, which make an important contribution to supporting young researchers and fostering networking. As part of the ongoing strategic process within the archive, I support organisational development, drawing on my experience from the museum and library sectors. In doing so, I work daily with a wide range of colleagues from all areas of the archive and build bridges with the other institutions of the Prussian Cultural Heritage Foundation.
My work therefore revolves around the areas of communication, cooperation and outreach. What I particularly appreciate is that no two days are the same and that I am able to engage in constant dialogue with a wide variety of colleagues.
What is your favourite place at the SPK?
My favourite place at the SPK is the garden of the State Archives. As I enjoy spending my free time outdoors, I really appreciate being able to work in such an idyllic spot.
The garden not only provides a lovely setting for events such as the summer party, but also invites you to take a quick breather during your lunch break. I love how the garden changes with the seasons: from the purple blossoms of the lilac in spring, through the ripe fruit in summer, to the fiery reds of autumn. For me, the garden is therefore the perfect counterbalance to what can sometimes be a hectic working day.
Fancy becoming part of the SPK family? You can find all current job vacancies across the Foundation on LinkedIn.
