At a Glance
- Tasks: Support data protection compliance and assist residents with data requests.
- Company: Chime Housing, dedicated to providing excellent homes and services.
- Benefits: 28 days annual leave, up to 11% pension contribution, and development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with a focus on community and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on data protection while working in a flexible, supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience with Data Subject Access Requests and knowledge of UK GDPR.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Chime Housing is committed to providing brilliant homes and services for our residents across Watford and beyond. Following the merger of Watford Community Housing and Thrive Homes, we are investing in our data protection capability to ensure our Group is compliant, well-governed, and trusted by the people we serve.
We are now looking for a Data Protection Coordinator to join us and work alongside our Group Data Protection Officer. This is a hands-on operational role where you will make a real difference by keeping our records in shape, supporting residents who make data requests, and helping the wider organisation build good data protection habits. You won’t be making high-level regulatory decisions; instead, you’ll be the engine room that keeps day-to-day compliance running smoothly.
Role purpose: To provide reliable operational data protection support to the Group DPO, helping Chime Housing deliver consistent compliance across the Group, with a particular focus on building capability and embedding good practice across the organisation.
Key Accountabilities:
- Handle Data Subject Access Requests (DSARs) from initial receipt through to preparing the response pack, ready for the Group DPO to review and sign off.
- Maintain all data protection registers - including the Data Asset Register (ROPA), and processor and controller records by keeping them accurate and up to date.
- Liaise with Data Champions across Chime Housing Group to prompt timely updates to the Data Asset Register and support their engagement with data governance.
- Carry out data protection due diligence for standard supplier relationships: obtain assurances, review responses, and file them alongside contracts and agreements.
- Log data protection incidents and near-misses accurately on the incident log and escalate to the Group DPO for assessment and decision.
- Produce monthly KPI reports on data protection activity, drawing on registers and logs to provide clear management information.
- Support scheduled reviews of data protection policies and help draft written procedures for routine compliance processes.
- Provide general administrative and coordination support to the Group DPO as needed.
What are we looking for?
Essential:
- Experience handling Data Subject Access Requests, or a clear and demonstrable understanding of the DSAR process under UK GDPR.
- Working knowledge of UK GDPR, Data Protection Act 2018 and the Data Use and Access Act (DUAA) 2025 framework.
- Experience maintaining compliance records, registers, or logs; and an organised, methodical approach to doing so.
- Good written communication skills: able to draft clear, accurate documentation and correspondence.
- Strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple tasks against deadlines.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
- A discreet and professional approach to handling sensitive personal information.
Desirable:
- Experience in housing, local government, or another regulated sector.
- A data protection qualification or certificate (e.g. BCS Foundation Certificate in Data Protection, CIPPE, or similar).
- Familiarity with supplier due diligence or DPIA processes.
- Experience producing management information or performance reports.
Who you’ll work with:
- Responsible to: Group Data Protection Officer
- Department: Information and Technology Services
What can we offer you?
- 28 days’ annual leave (pro rata)
- Employer pension contribution of up to 11%
- Development opportunities
- Comprehensive employee rewards scheme
How we work: We embrace agile working — blending time in our communities, shared spaces, and remote working. With digital technology at the heart of our approach, we empower teams and individuals to work flexibly.
How to apply: If this sounds like your next role, click ‘apply now’, tell us why you’ve got what it takes, and attach a copy of your current CV.
Closing date: 24th July 2026 Interviews: to be confirmed (Please note we reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a large response.)
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Data Protection Coordinator in Watford
✨Join Compliance Communities
Get involved in compliance and risk communities — both online and offline. Look for forums, LinkedIn groups, or even local meetups where compliance pros hang out. You never know who might drop a job opportunity your way!
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Keep an eye out for compliance and risk management conferences and workshops in your area. These events are a goldmine for networking, and they often have job boards or recruiters on-site looking for new talent. Plus, it’s a chance to learn what's trending in the field.
✨Leverage Your University Career Services
If you’ve recently graduated or are still studying, head over to your university's career services. Many companies, including those in compliance, actively recruit fresh talent through these services, so make sure you tap into that resource.
✨Showcase Your Knowledge Online
Start writing articles or blog posts about compliance topics that interest you. Share them on platforms like LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and passion. This not only builds your presence in the field but can also catch the attention of companies like Chime Housing looking for candidates who are engaged and informed.
We think you need these skills to ace Data Protection Coordinator in Watford
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 Chime Housing. 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 Chime Housing
✨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 Chime Housing’s stance on compliance. A shared vision can really resonate with interviewers looking for fit as much as skill!
