At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead information governance and data protection across the University, ensuring compliance and effective practices.
- Company: Birmingham Newman University, a dynamic institution focused on strategic goals and innovation.
- Benefits: 35 days annual leave, pension scheme, free parking, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative role with excellent career growth potential and a chance to influence strategic decisions.
- Why this job: Shape the future of information governance while making a real impact in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in information governance and data protection, with strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
Overview
Birmingham Newman University is seeking to appoint an experienced information governance professional with expertise and insight to lead across the University on all related aspects and to fulfil the statutory role of Data Protection Officer (DPO).
Reporting to the University Secretary and Chief Strategy Officer, this is an influential institution-wide role, providing advice and assurance to the most senior stakeholders.
As Head of Information Governance and DPO, you will ensure that robust, compliant, and effective information governance practices are embedded across all academic and professional service directorates, providing expert advice on managing information risk.
You will serve as the University\'s primary contact for the Information Commissioner\'s Office (ICO) and for individuals exercising their information rights.
The role combines organisational leadership with operational oversight and implementation, including the development of policies and frameworks, management of information rights requests, oversight of data breaches and risk mitigation, and delivery of training to build a culture of accountability.
The role will work closely in our Digital and IT Directorate to ensure effective and compliant data protection and information security practices while enabling institutional strategic goals and priorities.
Responsibilities
- Lead information governance and data protection across the University and fulfil the statutory role of Data Protection Officer (DPO).
- Advise senior stakeholders and influence strategic decision-making and organisational policy.
- Develop, implement, and monitor policies, procedures, and compliance frameworks.
- Manage data protection risks, including breach investigations, Data Protection Impact Assessments and Subject Access Requests.
- Ensure strong records management and information security practices adapted to a growing institutional context.
- Communicate complex concepts clearly to non-specialists, deliver training, and drive cultural change across diverse stakeholder groups.
- Exercise sound judgement and manage competing priorities in a complex environment.
- Collaborate across organisational boundaries, including with IT specialists and external partners.
Qualifications/Experience
- Substantial experience in information governance and data protection within a complex organisation.
- Expert knowledge of UK GDPR, Data Protection Act 2018, Freedom of Information and Environmental Information Regulations, and related codes of practice.
- Experience in a senior advisory capacity, influencing strategic decision-making and organisational policy.
- Proven ability to design, implement, and monitor policies, procedures, and compliance frameworks.
- Experience of managing data protection risks, including breach investigations, and undertaking Data Protection Impact Assessments and Subject Access Requests.
- Strong understanding of records management and information security principles.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to present complex concepts clearly to non-specialists, deliver training, and drive cultural change.
- Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively across organisational boundaries.
This is a unique opportunity to take a leading role in shaping and strengthening information governance at Birmingham Newman University, ensuring compliance while enabling the institution to deliver its strategic ambitions.
Informal enquiries about this opportunity are welcome. Please contact Yvonne Salter Wright, University Secretary and Chief Strategy Officer via email at to discuss the role further.
- Head of Information Governance and Data Protection Officer (DPO) (PDF - 489KB)
(Please note that CVs are not accepted as part of the application process unless explicitly stated).
Birmingham Newman University offers a wide range of staff benefits including 35 days annual leave entitlement plus bank holidays (pro rata for part time posts), pension scheme, chaplaincy and spiritual care, library services, free on-site parking, discounted travel scheme, cycle to work scheme, employee assistance programme, occupational health and counselling services and staff development opportunities.
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Contact Details:
Birmingham Newman University Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Information Governance and Data Protection Officer (DPO) (Post Ref:NU4826) in Birmingham
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We think you need these skills to ace Head of Information Governance and Data Protection Officer (DPO) (Post Ref:NU4826) in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Understanding of Compliance:In the compliance-risk field, it's super important to showcase your understanding of regulations and risk management frameworks. Highlight any relevant coursework, certifications (like ICA or AML), or even projects that demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to this area. We want to see how you can navigate this complex landscape!
Quantify Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, try to quantify your achievements. For example, if you've previously worked on a project that improved compliance metrics or reduced risk exposure, give us the numbers! This data-driven approach really stands out to hiring managers in compliance-risk roles.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Relevant Skills:Make sure your CV highlights skills that are particularly relevant to compliance, like attention to detail, analytical thinking, and report writing. Ensure these are easy to spot – consider using bullet points to break down your responsibilities and achievements for maximum impact!
Craft a Motivating Cover Letter:In your cover letter, let us know why you’re excited about the compliance-risk role at Birmingham Newman University. Share what motivates you about compliance, and how you believe you can contribute to our mission. This is your chance to showcase not only your skills but also your passion for this important field!
How to prepare for a job interview at Birmingham Newman University
✨Master the Regulations
Brush up on key compliance regulations relevant to the industry you're applying to. Familiarising yourself with specific laws and frameworks used in your field will give you an edge during technical questions. Show that you’re not just aware of them but can also apply them—think real-life scenarios!
✨Show Your Analytical Skills
Compliance roles really focus on analytical skills, so be prepared for case studies or situational questions during the interview. We've got to demonstrate how we approach risk assessments or compliance audits, possibly drawing on examples from past experiences or university projects. Bring some thoughtful case scenarios to discuss!
✨Know Your Tools
Get comfortable with commonly used compliance software and tools. Familiarity with platforms like RSA or MetricStream can really impress during your interview, as it shows you're ready to hit the ground running. If you’ve had any experience with them, make sure to highlight that!
✨Align with Company Culture
Since it's a full-time position, show your long-term commitment and interest in the company’s mission and values. Dive into how your ethics and professional philosophy align with Birmingham Newman University’s stance on compliance. A shared vision can really resonate with interviewers looking for fit as much as skill!
