At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Data Protection Policy team and provide expert guidance on complex issues.
- Company: Join the DVLA, a key player in government policy and data protection.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous pension, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Access to professional development opportunities and a diverse, inclusive workplace.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on government policy while developing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in policy development and strong communication skills are essential.
Head of Data Protection Policy and Police Support Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency Apply before 11:55 pm on Tuesday 1st September 2026 📍 Location: Swansea (This role is suitable for hybrid working) 💷 Salary: £57,515 - A Civil Service Pension with an employer contribution of 28.97% 🕘️ Contract
Type: Permanent – Flexible working, Full-time, Job share, Part-time 🏆️ Available
Positions: 1 The Data Protection Policy team plays a vital role in supporting the DVLA's engagement with ministers, the Department for Transport (Df T), and wider government stakeholders.
Working at the centre of strategic decision-making, the team provides high-quality policy advice, and contributes to ministerial briefings and other sensitive correspondence that supports government and agency priorities.
You will lead the strategic direction of the Data Protection Policy and Police Support teams, providing expert advice and guidance on complex and high-profile issues.
Build and manage effective relationships with ministers, senior officials, and key stakeholders to support policy development and legislative change.
Ensure the delivery of accurate, timely, and impactful briefings, advice, and communications, representing the DVLA professionally in a fast-paced and politically aware environment.
You will also manage the provision of critical services relied on by important government stakeholders.
- Top Responsibilities
- Leading the Data Protection Policy and Police Support teams, acting as the key contact within the Agency and ensuring the delivery of high quality, accurate and timely policy advice, briefings, parliamentary responses, sensitive correspondence in line with Df T protocols, and delivery of key operational services.
- Lead the development and delivery of policy and strategic initiatives, providing expert advice, engaging with stakeholders across government, and ensuring policies support Agency and government priorities while delivering high-quality outcomes.
- To provide leadership on the strategic direction of data protection policy and act as the champion for policy changes, working closely with relevant cross-agency colleagues.
To provide guidance and direction to own teams about the requirements for new polices/initiatives.
- Lead workforce planning and team development, ensuring resources, skills and capabilities are effectively managed to deliver directorate priorities and objectives.
For more information on the role and responsibilities please see the full job advert on CS Jobs using the link provided.
Benefits
- Employer pension contribution of 28.97% of your salary. Read more about Civil Service Pensions here
- 25 days annual leave, increasing by 1 day each year of service (up to a maximum of 30 days annual leave).
- 8 Bank Holidays plus an additional Privilege Day to mark the King’s birthday.
- Access to the staff discount portal.
- Excellent career development opportunities and the potential to undertake professional qualifications relevant to your role paid for by the department, such as CIPD, Prince2, apprenticeships, etc.
- Joining a diverse and inclusive workforce with a range of staff communities to support all our colleagues.
- 24-hour Employee Assistance Programme providing free confidential help and advice for staff.
- Flexible working options where we encourage a great work-life balance. About You To be successful in this role you will need to have the following experience:
- Experience of building and maintaining effective relationships with senior stakeholders.
This could include senior officials, senior civil servants, ministers' offices, or external partners in the Civil Service and public sector, and equivalent roles in the private sector like Chief Executive Officers (CEO), Managing Directors and Heads of Department.
Ability to influence outcomes and work collaboratively across organisational boundaries.
- Experience of developing, implementing, or influencing policy, supported by sound analysis and a strong understanding of the wider political environment.
Ability to provide strategic advice that aligns with government and organisational priorities.
- Experience of drafting, coordinating, or quality assuring high-quality ministerial submissions, briefings, parliamentary responses, or sensitive correspondence.
Demonstrable strong written communication skills and the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely.
- Experience of leading and developing teams, managing competing priorities, and ensuring resources are effectively deployed to deliver strategic objectives and high-quality outcomes in a fast-paced environment.
- Experience of identifying, managing, and mitigating risks, ensuring compliance with governance requirements and organisational policies.
Awareness of data protection principles and experience of handling sensitive information appropriately would be beneficial.
Qualifications The successful candidate will be expected to undertake appropriate training in data protection disciplines as needed, and hold or be prepared to gain industry standard qualifications in this field.
In this case, a willingness to undertake such training is required.
How to Apply 👉 Read the full description and apply at CS Jobs using the link provided.
This vacancy closes at 23:55 on Tuesday 1st September 2026
Head of Data Protection Policy and Police Support in Swansea employer: Driver & Vehicle Licensing Agency
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work environment in Swansea with flexible hybrid working options. Employees benefit from a generous pension contribution, extensive annual leave, and opportunities for professional development, all while being part of a diverse and inclusive workforce that values collaboration and innovation. With a strong focus on work-life balance and employee well-being, DVLA stands out as a rewarding place to build a meaningful career.
Contact Details:
Driver & Vehicle Licensing Agency Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Data Protection Policy and Police Support in Swansea
✨Dive into Local Government Events
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We think you need these skills to ace Head of Data Protection Policy and Police Support in Swansea
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Driver & Vehicle Licensing Agency and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Driver & Vehicle Licensing Agency
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Driver & Vehicle Licensing Agency, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Driver & Vehicle Licensing Agency.
