Senior Personnel Officer & Data Protection Officer in London

The BJS Federation of Schools seeks a Senior Personnel & Data Protection Officer (DPO) to play a key role in supporting our schools through effective personnel management and ensuring compliance with data protection legislation.

Key Responsibilities

• Pupil Attendance and Welfare
  • Lead and coordinate attendance systems and processes across the federation.
  • Monitor attendance and punctuality data, identifying trends and areas of concern.
  • Work closely with school leaders to implement strategies that improve attendance and reduce persistent absence.
  • Coordinate attendance panels, meetings and interventions with families.
  • Liaise with external agencies, including the Local Authority Attendance Service, where appropriate.
  • Ensure attendance procedures comply with statutory guidance and local authority requirements.
  • Produce attendance reports for school leaders, governors and federation committees.
  • Support the development of a positive culture of attendance across the federation.
• Personnel & HR
  • Lead the day‑to‑day personnel function across the Federation.
  • Provide advice and guidance to school leaders on HR policies, procedures and employment matters.
  • Manage recruitment processes, onboarding and induction arrangements.
  • Maintain accurate employee records and personnel files.
  • Manage absence management, employee relations and employee wellbeing initiatives.
  • Liaise with Lambeth HR services and external partners as required.
  • Ensure compliance with employment legislation, school policies and local authority guidance.
• Data Protection Officer (DPO)
  • Act as the Federation’s designated Data Protection Officer.
  • Monitor and advise on compliance with UK GDPR, Data Protection Act 2018 and school information governance requirements.
  • Develop and maintain data protection policies, procedures and records.
  • Support staff in handling personal data appropriately and securely.
  • Lead data protection training and awareness across the Federation.
  • Manage data breach reporting and investigations where required.
  • Serve as the key point of contact for data protection matters.

About You

We are looking for a professional who has a strong knowledge of personnel administration and HR practices, together with a sound understanding of UK GDPR and data protection requirements. The successful candidate will be able to build effective working relationships with school leaders, staff, governors and external agencies, demonstrating excellent organisational, communication and interpersonal skills. They will be able to manage confidential and sensitive information with professionalism and discretion, while maintaining a high level of accuracy and attention to detail. The ability to prioritise competing demands and work effectively in a busy school environment is essential, as is a commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

What We Offer

• A welcoming, inclusive and supportive working environment across our Federation schools.
• The opportunity to work alongside experienced and dedicated professionals who are committed to achieving the best outcomes for children.
• A strong culture of collaboration, teamwork and professional respect.
• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities to support career progression.
• Access to high-quality safeguarding, HR, attendance, GDPR and compliance training.
• Opportunities to work across vibrant and diverse school communities.
• A commitment to staff wellbeing and work‑life balance.
• Access to employee wellbeing support and assistance programmes.
• Regular opportunities to contribute to school improvement and wider Federation initiatives.
• A leadership team that values innovation, initiative and continuous improvement.
• Generous Local Government Pension Scheme membership.
• Access to occupational sick pay and family‑friendly policies.
• A cycle‑to‑work scheme (if applicable).
• The opportunity to make a genuine difference to the lives of children, families and communities every day.

Why Join Us?

The BJS Federation is a highly successful partnership of schools committed to excellence, inclusion and community. We pride ourselves on developing talented staff, nurturing positive relationships and creating an environment where everyone can flourish. This is an exciting opportunity to join a dedicated Federation team and play a key role in supporting our schools to provide outstanding education and care for every child.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check.