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- Tasks: Lead data protection initiatives and support schools in compliance and best practices.
- Company: Join a dynamic team dedicated to safeguarding children's data across East Sussex.
- Benefits: Diverse benefits, vocational training, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on data protection while shaping the future of Children’s Services.
- Qualifications: Expertise in data protection legislation and strong leadership skills required.
- Other info: Innovative role with potential for career advancement and meaningful contributions.
Are you ready to champion data protection and shape best practice across Children’s Services and schools? We’re looking for a dynamic leader to head our traded service, acting as the named Data Protection Officer for over 50 schools and support our Children’s Services department. In this role, you’ll be driving compliance in line with legislation; leading our team of information governance officers; delivering audits, risk assessments, and bespoke training; and developing policies and resources – designed to make a difference! Whilst also advising on privacy by design and supporting the resolution of complex data sharing issues.
What we’re looking for:
- Expert knowledge of data protection legislation
- Strong leadership and communication skills
- Experience of Data Protection Impact Assessments and Data Sharing Agreements
- Experience in audits, training, and strategy development
- Ability to manage complex challenges and build strong working partnerships
Desirable:
- GDPR Practitioner qualification and insight into local government and school operations.
You’ll play a pivotal role in safeguarding data, supporting schools, and driving continuous improvement for the Children’s Services department. This is a strategic position with scope to innovate and expand services. Apply now and help us deliver excellence in data protection!
To apply for this role, please follow the ‘Apply Now’ button above and upload your CV and a Supporting Statement. We will be using your Supporting Statement to shortlist so please be sure to address how you meet all the criteria in the person specification, drawing on any relevant work/life experience, education, or personal interests.
For guidance on how to write an application see our how to apply page. Please download the Job Description and Person Specification for more information. Interviews will take place virtually, via MS Teams on Thursday 18 December 2025. If you are unavailable on this date let us know and we may be able to schedule an alternative date to interview you.
Candidates who meet certain criteria are given priority when we shortlist. See our priority status page for details. We offer a diverse range of benefits to help and support you during your employment. More information can be found on our benefits page.
Vocational Training through Apprenticeships is now available to our staff, ranging from entry level to degree level qualifications. You can talk to the hiring manager and the apprenticeship team about what qualifications would be relevant to you and this job role, and if it is possible to support you in apprenticeship training. For an informal discussion about this opportunity contact Peter Questier (peter.questier@eastsussex.gov.uk) to request a MS teams call or phone call. For a team that supports me, choose East Sussex!
Senior Information Governance and Schools Data Protection Officer in Lewes employer: East Sussex County Council
Contact Detail:
East Sussex County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Information Governance and Schools Data Protection Officer in Lewes
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the data protection field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research common questions related to data protection and think about how your experience aligns with the role. Practising your answers will help you feel more confident when it’s time to shine.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your expertise! During interviews, be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've handled data protection challenges in the past. This will demonstrate your leadership skills and your ability to drive compliance effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and making a difference in data protection!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Information Governance and Schools Data Protection Officer in Lewes
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Supporting Statement: Make sure to customise your Supporting Statement to highlight how you meet the criteria in the person specification. We want to see your relevant experience and skills shine through, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a Senior Information Governance and Schools Data Protection Officer, strong leadership is key. Use your application to demonstrate your past experiences leading teams or projects, and how you’ve driven compliance and best practices.
Be Specific About Your Experience: When discussing your experience with data protection legislation, audits, and training, be specific! We love details that show how you’ve tackled complex challenges and built partnerships in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to hit that ‘Apply Now’ button on our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your CV and Supporting Statement, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table.
How to prepare for a job interview at East Sussex County Council
✨Know Your Data Protection Legislation
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of data protection legislation, especially GDPR. Be prepared to discuss how these laws apply to schools and Children’s Services, and think of examples where you've successfully navigated compliance challenges.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Senior Information Governance Officer, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership. Prepare to share specific instances where you've led a team or project, highlighting your communication skills and ability to build partnerships.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities, particularly around complex data sharing issues. Think of scenarios where you've had to make tough decisions or resolve conflicts, and be ready to explain your thought process.
✨Tailor Your Supporting Statement
Your Supporting Statement is crucial for shortlisting. Make sure it directly addresses the criteria in the person specification. Use relevant work experiences and personal insights to illustrate how you meet each requirement, showing your passion for data protection.
