About
Governance
A trusted organisation, accountable to our people and partners
Founded in 1989, Cotswold Archaeology is a limited company and registered educational charity that advances public education of archaeology, and furthers appreciation of the cultural heritage and historic environment in the UK and other parts of the world.
Our team of senior managers is directed by Chief Executive Neil Holbrook, and they are together accountable to a Board of Trustees who oversee the strategic, commercial and educational activities of the business.
You can find out more about us at the Charity Commission website.
Our standards
We follow the quality and standards set by the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA), Historic England (HE), National Planning Policy Framework for England, the Federation of Archaeological Managers and Employers (FAME) and others.
We maintain accreditation with Health and Safety organisations and ISO Quality systems, and we are advised in our academic publication by archaeological advisers.
Our strategy
Our commercial and charitable activities are guided by a Strategic Plan that defines our mission and values, and sets out company aims, objectives and targets for five-year periods.
Our core mission is to be expert in understanding the past through investigation and research, to be a leading supplier of professional heritage services, to ensure a high-quality offering to clients and colleagues, and to communicate our knowledge for the benefit of all.
Health and Safety
We are dedicated to ensuring the health, safety, and wellbeing of our colleagues and everyone we work with. As an ISO 45001 accredited learning organisation, we ensure that our systems are sector leading, supporting the delivery of safety-informed archaeological work where risk is minimised.
With more than 35 years of experience, we know how to resolve challenges and hazards in a safe, effective, and professional manner, consistently promoting a proactive and responsible working culture. From day one with the company, we ensure that every colleague has the right training, equipment, and support to work safely.
Creating Social Value
In line with the government’s Social Value Model, we can help you deliver social value through our work with communities, our investment in people, and our efforts to reduce environmental impact.
Community – We have a dedicated Engagement Team who run talks, open days, school visits and volunteering across the UK.
Work – We support trainees, offer work experience and student placements, and actively promote careers in archaeology.
Economy – We favour suppliers local to our offices and projects, and promote responsible procurement.
Planet – We’re committed to sustainability, with a carbon reduction plan and Net Zero goal.
Professional citizenship – supporting our profession
Our staff use their knowledge and expertise to support other professional bodies, academic research, and national and regional societies.
Some serve on committees that shape industry standards and best practice. Others are involved in archaeological societies, research collaborations, or heritage projects in their own communities.
You can read the latest updates on our professional citizenship and outreach activities in our News section.
Policies and plans
| Trustees Annual Report | March 2025 | Download |
| Sustainability Policy | March 2026 | Download |
| Carbon Reduction Plan | July 2026 | Download |
| Quality Policy | March 2026 | Download |
| Gender Pay Report | February 2026 | Download |
| Anti-Slavery Policy | March 2026 | Download |
| Anti-Bribery Policy | March 2026 | Download |
| Environmental Policy | March 2026 | Download |
Want to know more?
If you have a question about our governance, charitable objectives, or partnerships, we’d be happy to help.
