At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure data protection compliance and provide strategic advice to senior stakeholders.
- Company: Join a vital public sector organisation making a real impact.
- Benefits: Up to Β£50,000 salary, strong pension, and ongoing professional development.
- Why this job: Be a trusted authority in data protection during a crucial time for the organisation.
- Qualifications: Professional Data Protection qualification and confidence in advising on data matters.
- Other info: Hybrid working with excellent career growth opportunities in a supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 58000 Β£ per year.
We are recruiting a Data Protection Officer to take on a critical governance and assurance role at a time of significant delivery pressure. This is a permanent vacancy, though we may be open to a fixed-term or temp-to-perm arrangement for the right candidate.
The role exists to ensure the organisation continues to meet its statutory obligations around data protection, information rights and information sharing, while providing confident, proportionate advice to senior stakeholders. Interim cover is currently in place, but a long-term appointment is essential to maintain continuity, reduce cost and manage organisational risk.
The role
Reporting into senior governance leadership, you will hold responsibility for the organisation's Data Protection and Freedom of Information functions. This includes acting as the primary point of contact with the Information Commissioner's Office, overseeing data breaches, signing off disclosures, and ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and professional practice.
You will provide strategic and practical advice across the organisation, support project teams with privacy impact assessments, maintain robust disclosure processes, and ensure staff are appropriately trained and supported. The role also includes line management responsibility for an information disclosure team and regular engagement with internal and external partners.
What we're looking for
This role is suitable for someone who is professionally qualified as a Data Protection Officer but does not necessarily need to be highly experienced in post. We are open to candidates who are newly qualified, provided they bring the right judgement, integrity and public-sector mindset.
Essential requirements
- A recognised professional Data Protection (and/or FOI) qualification
- The confidence to act as an organisational authority on data protection matters
- Experience working in a highly confidential, regulated environment
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to advise senior stakeholders
Ideal background
- Public sector experience, particularly policing, local government, NHS, central government or the charity sector
- Exposure to structured governance, learning and compliance frameworks
- Experience supporting or delivering DPIAs / privacy impact assessments
Candidates whose experience is rooted solely in the private sector are unlikely to be suitable, as the role relies heavily on public-sector governance structures and learning infrastructure.
Location & working pattern
Applicants should be within reasonable commuting distance. Hybrid working, with 2 days per week on site initially, reducing to 1 day per week over time.
Reward
- Salary up to Β£50,000, depending on experience
- Strong public-sector pension
- Ongoing CPD and professional development
- The opportunity to step into a trusted, visible role with genuine organisational impact
Why apply?
This is a high-trust appointment at a sensitive time. The organisation is clear that appointing the right person matters and will support someone who brings sound fundamentals, good judgement and the willingness to grow into the role.
Please apply at your earliest opportunity.
Data Protection Officer in London employer: DataCareers
Contact Detail:
DataCareers Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Data Protection Officer in London
β¨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the public sector, especially those in data protection roles. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
β¨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of data protection laws and best practices. Be ready to discuss how you would handle real-life scenarios, as this shows youβre not just book-smart but also practical.
β¨Tip Number 3
Donβt underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds.
β¨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! Weβve got all the latest job listings, and applying directly can sometimes give you a leg up. Plus, itβs super easy to keep track of your applications.
We think you need these skills to ace Data Protection Officer in London
Some tips for your application π«‘
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in data protection and governance. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so donβt be shy about showcasing your qualifications!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since strong written and verbal communication is key for this role, use your application to demonstrate these skills. Keep your language clear and professional, and make sure to convey your ability to advise senior stakeholders effectively.
Highlight Relevant Experience: If you have experience in public sector roles or working with data protection frameworks, make it front and centre in your application. Weβre looking for candidates who understand the unique challenges of the public sector, so share those insights!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. Itβs the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us youβre serious about joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at DataCareers
β¨Know Your Data Protection Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your data protection laws and regulations. Familiarise yourself with the key principles of GDPR and how they apply in a public sector context. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that youβre serious about the role.
β¨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific data protection scenarios, like a data breach or a request for information. Think through some examples from your past experience or hypothetical situations, and be ready to explain your thought process and decision-making.
β¨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Data Protection Officer, you'll need to communicate complex information clearly to senior stakeholders. Practice explaining data protection concepts in simple terms, and be prepared to demonstrate your written communication skills, perhaps by discussing reports or policies you've worked on.
β¨Understand the Public Sector Landscape
Since this role is heavily rooted in the public sector, itβs crucial to understand its unique challenges and governance structures. Research the organisation and its current data protection initiatives, and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their goals.