At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure compliance with data protection laws and provide expert advice to TOCs.
- Company: Join DFTO, the government’s public sector rail owning group, transforming train operations.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, a generous pension scheme, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with excellent career growth and networking opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on data protection in a vital public service.
- Qualifications: In-depth knowledge of UK GDPR and experience in data protection frameworks required.
The predicted salary is between 53107 - 53107 € per year.
Join Our Team at DFTO. DFTO is the government’s public sector rail owning group. Its purpose is to bring all currently privately‑owned train operators into public ownership in advance of the creation of Great British Railways in 2027 - and deliver improvements in the here and now by unifying and integrating train operations under common public ownership.
DFTO has over 30,000 employees, runs over 8,500 services a day and delivers over 640 million customer journeys across its networks every year. Major improvements are being delivered by DFTO train operators (TOCs) that are already under public ownership - these are LNER, Northern, TransPennine Express (TPE), Southeastern, South Western Railway (SWR), c2c, Greater Anglia and WM Trains.
We work closely with the DfT but operate independently with our own governance and leadership teams. Our priority is ensuring efficient, dependable rail services for everyone.
Primary Purpose of Job: As the statutory Data Protection Officer for assigned TOCs, monitor and drive compliance with an understanding of the UK General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR), Data Protection Act (DPA) 2018 and other legislative and regulatory requirements. Provide expert advice, and embed a culture of compliance through proactive engagement and training.
Key Responsibilities:
- Act as the statutory Data Protection Officer for assigned TOC(s), delivering on all minimum tasks defined in the Data Protection Act 2018, reporting into relevant TOC Boards and acting as the designated contact for the ICO for relevant TOC(s).
- Manage complex Data Subject Access Requests (DSARs), rectifications, erasures, objections and other rights‑based requests, ensuring they are processed efficiently, in line with internal policies and statutory deadlines.
- Provide independent advice on the completion of DPIAs, including assessment of privacy risks and mitigations and compliance with the principles of data protection by design.
- Provide independent oversight and advice in relation to personal data breaches for assigned TOCs.
- Work with the Senior TOC DPO to deliver targeted training and awareness sessions to employees of the assigned TOC(s).
- Provide expert support and advice on data protection issues to assigned TOC(s), acting as a key point of contact for employees needing guidance on regulations and best practices.
- Embed group policies, templates and processes within assigned TOCs to drive consistency and standardisation of approach.
- Engage in collaborative initiatives with other data protection and compliance specialists across the group.
- Establish and develop relationships with senior leadership groups across assigned TOCs, advising on data protection principles, risks, and mitigations.
- Track and report on data protection performance, identifying trends and recommending process improvements.
- Maintain knowledge of current data protection law, technologies and best practice to advise the business on compliance matters.
- Monitor data protection compliance across all assigned TOCs, conducting regular audits to identify risks and ensure compliance.
- Contribute to the development and delivery of DFTO’s overall data protection strategy.
Knowledge, Skills, Experience & Technical Qualifications:
- In‑depth knowledge of UK GDPR, DPA 2018, Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR) and ICO guidance.
- Strong track record in developing and implementing data protection frameworks across multiple business units.
- Expertise in managing complex and high risk DSARs, DPIAs, and data breach responses.
- Excellent stakeholder engagement skills, with ability to influence at senior levels.
- Demonstrable ability to interpret and communicate legal requirements in plain language.
- Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively across legal, IT, security, and operational teams.
- Commitment to continual learning and ethical standards.
Desirable: Holds a recognised data protection certification (e.g. CIPP/E or BCS Practitioner).
Vacancy Details:
- Duration: Fixed Term contract/secondment to October 2027
- Reports to: Senior TOC Data Protection Officer
- Location: London Waterloo
- Salary: up to £53,107
- Closing date: 26th April 2026
DFTO Benefits:
- Annual Leave: Starting at 25 days and rising to an additional day per year of service completed within the first 5 completed years up to a maximum of 5 additional (30 days)
- DC Pension Scheme: 10% Employer contribution, 5% Employee contribution
- Opportunities to learn and network across the wider industry
If you have any questions or reasonable adjustments, please contact.
TOC Data Protection Officer in London employer: DfT Operator
At DFT Operator, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. With competitive benefits such as generous annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and opportunities to learn and network within the rail industry, our team members are empowered to thrive in their roles while contributing to the vital mission of unifying and improving public rail services across the UK.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land TOC Data Protection Officer in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join online forums, or even hit up LinkedIn. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Data Protection Officer gig.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of GDPR and DPA 2018. Be ready to discuss real-life scenarios where you've applied these regulations. Show them you’re not just book-smart but can handle the practical side too!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’re the perfect fit.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got all the latest job openings, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your applications and updates from us.
We think you need these skills to ace TOC Data Protection Officer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with data protection laws like GDPR and DPA 2018. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Data Protection Officer, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Expertise:When writing your application, emphasise your knowledge of data protection frameworks and your experience managing complex DSARs. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so let us know what you bring to the table!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your language straightforward and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate clarity, especially when it comes to legal requirements. Make it easy for us to see your qualifications and experience without wading through unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details directly and can process your application smoothly. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at DfT Operator
✨Know Your GDPR Inside Out
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018. Brush up on key principles, rights, and compliance requirements, as you'll likely be asked to explain how these apply in real-world scenarios during your interview.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Engagement Skills
Prepare examples that demonstrate your ability to engage with senior stakeholders. Think about times when you've influenced decisions or communicated complex legal requirements in a way that was easily understood by operational teams.
✨Be Ready for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that put you in hypothetical situations related to data breaches or DSARs. Practice articulating your thought process and the steps you would take to manage these situations effectively, showcasing your analytical and problem-solving skills.
✨Highlight Your Continuous Learning Mindset
Express your commitment to staying updated on data protection laws and best practices. Mention any relevant certifications or training you've undertaken, and be prepared to discuss how you apply this knowledge in your work.
