At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our GRC team as a Data Protection Officer, ensuring compliance and managing data protection risks.
- Company: Cognisys is a leading cybersecurity firm focused on innovation and customer service across 30 countries.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid work, professional development budget, employee wellness resources, and generous holiday allowance.
- Other info: Open-minded about qualifications; focus on ability and attitude over strict criteria.
- Why this job: Be part of a collaborative team that values your ideas and makes a real impact on clients.
- Qualifications: 3-5 years in data protection roles; GDPR knowledge essential; strong communication and analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 32000 £ per year.
Location: Leeds (Hybrid)
Salary: £35 - £40K (DOE)
We have an exciting opportunity to join our GRC team as a Data Protection Officer at a time of rapid growth and innovation at Cognisys. Cognisys is a leading cybersecurity company specialising in Penetration Testing, GRC Consulting, and Managed Security services. We pride ourselves on our customer service, forward-thinking approach, and commitment to excellence. Our small but mighty team works with some of the best-known companies in the world and covers over 30 countries worldwide!
About the Role
We seek a passionate, detail-oriented, and knowledgeable Data Protection Officer to join our team. In this pivotal position, you will ensure our clients establish robust governance frameworks, manage appropriate controls and maintain compliance with GDPR and other data legislations. You will also conduct thorough audits to evaluate and improve the effectiveness of control and governance processes.
Key Responsibilities
- Compliance Management: Monitor and ensure compliance with data protection laws, including GDPR, CCPA, and other applicable regulations. Advise on data protection impact assessments (DPIAs) and monitor compliance with internal data protection policies and practices. Develop and maintain the organisation’s data protection policies, procedures, and practices to ensure compliance with legal requirements. Ensure the organisation’s data protection practices are aligned with industry standards.
- Risk Management: Identify and evaluate data protection risks within the organisation. Develop and implement strategies to mitigate data protection risks. Conduct regular audits to ensure adherence to data protection laws and internal policies.
- Training and Awareness: Develop and conduct training sessions for employees on data protection and privacy laws. Promote a culture of data protection awareness throughout the organisation. Provide expert advice and guidance to staff regarding data protection obligations.
- Data Subject Rights: Oversee the management of data subject access requests (DSARs) and ensure timely responses to requests related to personal data. Advise the organisation on data subject rights, including the right to access, rectify, delete, or port personal data.
- Incident Management: Respond to data breaches, ensuring timely reporting of incidents to regulatory authorities and affected individuals in accordance with the law. Investigate any data breaches or incidents and ensure corrective actions are taken to prevent future occurrences. Maintain breach records and contribute to breach response strategies.
- External Liaison: Serve as the contact point for regulatory authorities and cooperate with them regarding data protection matters. Respond to data protection inquiries from external parties, including regulators and third-party vendors.
- Documentation and Reporting: Maintain records of processing activities, risk assessments, and compliance efforts. Prepare and submit reports on data protection activities to senior management and regulatory authorities as required.
- Continuous Improvement: Stay updated on evolving data protection regulations, industry trends, and emerging technologies. Recommend improvements to data protection practices and ensure the organisation is prepared for regulatory changes.
Requirements
- Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in data protection, privacy, or compliance roles.
- Experience with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and other privacy laws (e.g., CCPA, HIPAA) is essential.
- Previous experience working as a Data Protection Officer or in a similar capacity is highly desirable.
- Familiarity with risk management and audit processes.
- A strong desire to grow, develop and support junior members of the team.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills for liaising with external stakeholders, conveying complex compliance information.
- Ability to analyse data, identify key issues, and develop practical solutions.
- Plan, prioritise, and manage time efficiently.
- Due to the nature of this role, having an eye for detail is crucial.
If you think you can deliver but don't match the criteria above, please don't be put off. We are very open-minded and focus on ability and attitude above skills.
What We Offer
- A dynamic and supportive work environment where customer care and innovation drive everything we do.
- A dedicated budget for your professional development.
- EMI Employee Share Schemes provide the opportunity to share in the company's success.
- Access to an Employee Wellness Hub supported by Kara Connect for health and well-being resources.
- Frequent team social events and celebrations.
- 22 days holiday rising to 25, plus a birthday holiday.
- Refer a friend bonus scheme, up to £2,000!
Why Join Us?
At Cognisys, you will be part of a collaborative and innovative team that values your input and shares support. You'll have the opportunity to work on challenging projects that make a real impact on our clients. We'd love to hear from you if you want to challenge, lead and innovate! We're not just about the work; we're about the people. Join a team where innovation is celebrated and your contributions are valued. We foster a collaborative environment where fresh ideas thrive and professional growth is encouraged.
Applications
Please feel free to reach out to Dom, our Head of Talent Acquisition, if you would like any further information, to discuss accessibility requirements, or if you require this information provided in an alternative format – hiring@cognisys.co.uk
We welcome applications from candidates from diverse backgrounds and can make various reasonable adjustments to accommodate individual needs.
NO RECRUITMENT AGENCIES, PLEASE
Data Protection Officer Governance, Risk and Compliance (GRC) · Leeds HQ · employer: Cognisys Group
Cognisys is an exceptional employer that champions a dynamic and supportive work culture, where innovation and customer care are at the forefront of everything we do. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we offer dedicated budgets for professional development, EMI Employee Share Schemes, and a wellness hub to support your health and well-being. Join our collaborative team in Leeds, where your contributions are valued, and enjoy a range of benefits including generous holiday allowances and frequent social events.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Data Protection Officer Governance, Risk and Compliance (GRC) · Leeds HQ ·
✨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 Cognisys Group looking for candidates who are engaged and informed.
We think you need these skills to ace Data Protection Officer Governance, Risk and Compliance (GRC) · Leeds HQ ·
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 Cognisys Group. 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 Cognisys Group
✨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 Cognisys Group’s stance on compliance. A shared vision can really resonate with interviewers looking for fit as much as skill!
