Born in 1961 in Paris, Hervé Lemoine is a prominent French archivist. The high-ranking civil servant holds a DEA (Diploma of Advanced Studies) in Contemporary History and Political Science. Beginning his career in 1988 at the Service historique de l’Armée de Terre (now named the Defence Historical Service), he was responsible for private archives and the creation of an oral history department. He later held various positions within the Ministry of Defense, including deputy director of archives and libraries. From 1999 to 2006, his teaching skills were sought after by the Institute of Political Studies in Paris, and he was later appointed director of the Museum of French Monuments at the Cité de l’architecture et du patrimoine in Paris. He then served as director of the French Archives at the Ministry of Culture until 2018, overseeing the national and departmental public archives network. Nominated for the role of director and later, president of the Mobilier national, the French national furniture repository, Lemoine has undertaken a major strategic overhaul, focusing on public outreach, social utility, and a renewed partnership with the contemporary design and craft community. Recognized for his expertise and achievements, Lemoine has been awarded the rank of Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres (2005) and Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur (2014), two of the highest French distinctions. His work has significantly contributed to the preservation and promotion of France’s cultural heritage and the evolution of archival and heritage management practices.
