At a Glance
- Tasks: Oversee data protection compliance and provide risk-based advice on data handling.
- Company: Benchmark, a leading investment platform with a strong reputation.
- Benefits: Part-time flexibility, great campus facilities, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Enjoy a countryside campus with an on-site restaurant, gym, and shuttle service.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on data protection in a dynamic financial services setting.
- Qualifications: Significant experience in data protection and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
Benchmark is appointing a Data Protection Officer (DPO) to oversee and maintain the effectiveness of its data protection framework across its investment platform, financial planning businesses, and network. This is a senior, independent role reporting to the Head of Legal, providing challenge and advice to senior stakeholders. You will ensure personal data is handled in line with UK GDPR and associated regulation, while supporting the business to manage data risk in a practical, commercial way. This is a part-time position (3 days per week) with flexibility on working pattern.
What you’ll do:
- Act as Benchmark’s appointed DPO, maintaining independence and providing oversight of data protection compliance.
- Monitor and assess compliance with UK GDPR, DPA 2018, and PECR across the group.
- Provide clear, risk-based advice on new initiatives, data use, and data sharing arrangements.
- Oversee and approve DPIAs and LIAs, ensuring risks are identified and mitigated.
- Maintain oversight of Records of Processing Activities (ROPA).
- Oversee data protection requirements across third-party and outsourcing arrangements, including international transfers.
- Act as escalation point for personal data breaches, including assessment, reporting, and remediation.
- Oversee processes for handling data subject rights requests.
- Lead training and promote a strong, risk-aware data protection culture.
- Act as the primary contact with the ICO and manage regulatory engagement.
The knowledge, experience and qualifications you need:
Essential:
- Significant experience in data protection or privacy within a regulated environment.
- Experience operating at senior level, DPO, Head of, or equivalent.
- Strong working knowledge of UK GDPR, DPA 2018, and PECR.
- Ability to provide independent challenge to senior stakeholders.
- Clear, concise communication skills with strong written reporting capability.
- Analytical and risk-focused approach with sound judgement.
Desirable:
- Experience within wealth management, financial advice, platforms, or AR models.
- Understanding of data flows within regulated financial services distribution.
- Knowledge of FCA Handbook requirements, including Consumer Duty, SYSC, and PROD.
- Experience with outsourcing and operational resilience frameworks.
Qualifications:
- Relevant privacy qualification preferred (e.g. CIPP/E, CIPM or equivalent).
- Legal or compliance background beneficial but not essential.
The base:
You’ll be based at the Benchmark Head Office, within our Broadlands Business Campus near Horsham in West Sussex but will need to be present across our other offices, including the main Schroders headquarters in London. It has high standards and international reputation, without being in the city: a big, countryside campus means life will feel a little different. We support our offices by using cutting edge software and hardware and our spacious campus facilities mean there's a great working environment for the team. With an on-site restaurant, coffee shop and gym, our campus has much to offer. And commuters can relax on our dedicated regular shuttle bus to and from Horsham's main line train station.
Data Protection Officer employer: Benchmark Capital Limited
Benchmark is an exceptional employer, offering a part-time Data Protection Officer role that combines flexibility with a commitment to data protection excellence. Located in the serene Broadlands Business Campus near Horsham, employees enjoy a supportive work culture, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and opportunities for professional growth within a reputable financial services environment. With amenities like an on-site restaurant, coffee shop, and gym, as well as a dedicated shuttle service for commuters, Benchmark ensures a balanced and rewarding work experience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Data Protection Officer
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the data protection field! Attend industry events, webinars, or even local meetups. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that DPO role.
✨Show Off Your Expertise
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, don’t hold back on showcasing your knowledge of UK GDPR and data protection regulations. We want to see you confidently discussing how you can help them manage data risks effectively!
✨Tailor Your Approach
Every company is different, so make sure you tailor your conversations to reflect their specific needs and challenges. We recommend doing a bit of research on Benchmark and their data protection framework before any discussions.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Data Protection Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Data Protection Officer role. Highlight your experience with UK GDPR and any relevant qualifications. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since clear communication is key in this role, use your application to demonstrate your writing abilities. Keep it concise and professional, but let your personality shine through. We love a bit of flair!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Don’t forget to emphasise your previous roles related to data protection or privacy. If you've worked at a senior level or have experience in regulated environments, make that front and centre. We’re keen to see how you can bring that expertise to our team!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure it gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our company culture there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Benchmark Capital Limited
✨Know Your GDPR Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of UK GDPR, DPA 2018, and PECR. Be ready to discuss how these regulations apply to the role and provide examples of how you've navigated compliance challenges in the past.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that put you in hypothetical situations regarding data breaches or compliance issues. Think through your approach to risk assessment and mitigation, and be prepared to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Data Protection Officer, you'll need to communicate complex information clearly. Practice explaining data protection concepts in simple terms, and be ready to demonstrate your written reporting capabilities with examples from your previous roles.
✨Understand the Business Context
Familiarise yourself with Benchmark's business model and how data protection fits into their operations. This will help you provide relevant, risk-based advice during the interview and show that you're not just a compliance expert but also a strategic partner.
