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- Tasks: Lead a team to manage data protection risks and provide expert advice.
- Company: Join the Environment Agency, committed to inclusivity and community reflection.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working patterns and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while developing your skills in a dynamic role.
- Qualifications: Must have a recognised data protection qualification and relevant experience.
- Other info: This is a 12-month maternity cover with opportunities for remote work.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Data Protection Manager – 12 month assignment – 31435
Data Protection Manager – 12 month assignment – 31435
1 day ago Be among the first 25 applicants
Job Description
We are committed to having an inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. We welcome flexible working patterns for all our vacancies. This is a full-time assignment covering maternity leave for approximately 12 months to October 2026.
Job Description
We are committed to having an inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. We welcome flexible working patterns for all our vacancies. This is a full-time assignment covering maternity leave for approximately 12 months to October 2026.
As a senior Data Protection specialist, you will deal with complex matters relating to personal data and manage data protection risks. You will lead the Data Protection team to provide expert advice and support across the organisation. Your work will influence decision-making at senior levels and support the Environment Agency’s legal obligations and business objectives.
You will work autonomously within policy frameworks, using your judgement and applying your deep understanding of data protection legislation to new and varied scenarios, assessing risk, and recommending appropriate actions to resolve complex data protection issues.
The responsibilities for this role include:
- acting as the organisation’s subject matter expert on all aspects of data protection, managing complex casework, complaints and directly supporting the Data Protection Officer
- providing strategic advice and guidance to teams on their processing of personal data
- manage more complex or sensitive requests, including those from individuals exercising their data protection rights, as well as leading advice on personal data aspects of high profile and complicated information requests
- commissioning and reviewing policies, procedures, training and guidance to ensure consistent and compliant handling of personal data
- building and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external partners to support effective collaboration and risk management.
- contributing to the planning and delivery of strategic priorities, including through project leadership or specialist input to transformation initiatives.
- supporting development of data protection capability in the team and across the organisation through coaching, mentoring, and knowledge sharing.
Everyone is required to participate in incident response when needed. See candidate pack for more information.
The team
You’ll join the Data Protection team, part of Knowledge and Information Management (KIM) within the Data and Information department. Alongside our Knowledge and Records Management colleagues, we shape how the Environment Agency manages information. We’re a friendly, supportive team spread across the country, working together to make a real impact.
You will line manage a small team of Data Protection advisers and work closely with the Data Protection Officer and Information Law team.
Experience/skills Required
Essential:
- Current, recognised data protection practitioner qualification, such as BCS, IAPP, or PDP.
- Expert technical knowledge and significant experience in a data protection role
- Proven ability to build and influence relationships across a wide range of stakeholders, balancing multiple perspectives and securing consensus to deliver results through others.
- Demonstrated leadership in implementing innovative solutions to complex challenges, managing organisational priorities and resources in high-risk or reputationally sensitive matters.
- A clear commitment to teamwork and continuous improvement, contributing to a culture of learning and collaboration
- Excellent communication and technical coaching skills
- Flexibility and resilience to adapt to changing priorities and demands, managing a busy workload, while maintaining focus on efficiency and quality outcomes.
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills, leading confidently through uncertainty and complexity
- Ability to balance attention to detail and seeing the bigger picture
Desirable experience:
- Working within a large public sector organisation.
- Compliance monitoring and reporting
- Line management
Contact and additional information
Everyone starting in a new role will be welcomed into the team and given all the training, support and equipment needed. Much of our work occurs virtually, we encourage blended home (UK) and office working. Some travel will be required to attend meetings/training. For more information about working for us please read the candidate pack and additional information document.
For questions relating to this role, please contact Sally Williams sally.williams@environment-agency.gov.uk
Interviews will likely take place week commencing 18 August, via MS Teams.
If you consent to be recruited onto a reserve list, we’ll hold your details for 6 months and we may offer you an alternative post.
Internal applicants will need their line manager’s permission to apply for an assignment opportunity.
Length of contract
Up to 12 months
Competence 1
Takes Decisions and Solves Problems
Description
Find and deliver optimal solutions by effectively analysing all the information, probing to develop alternatives and taking sound and timely decisions.
Provide an example of a situation when you made a timely decision to solve a complex data protection problem or issue. Explain how you decided on the solution, and the outcome.
PLEASE NOTE: Your answer will be used for interview selection – please draw out your skills and experience in your response. You may find it helpful to research the STAR approach when formulating your response.
A link to the capability dictionary, which outlines some of the key things we\’re looking for in your answers, can be found in the Candidate Pack attached to the advert
Competence 2
Influences and Persuades Others
Description
Presenting a case in a convincing and attractive way that will win people over, encouraging them to follow plans willingly; often succeeding where logic and reason alone would fail.
Provide an example of a situation where you have successfully influenced key people with multiple perspectives to agree a way forward, which achieved an organisational outcome. Explain how you influenced them to change their perspectives, the challenges you faced, and what you achieved.
PLEASE NOTE: Your answer will be used for interview selection – please draw out your skills and experience in your response. You may find it helpful to research the STAR approach when formulating your response.
A link to the capability dictionary, which outlines some of the key things we\’re looking for in your answers, can be found in the Candidate Pack attached to the advert
Competence 3
Focuses on Efficiency, Innovation and Quality
Description
Identifies and seizes the opportunity to create, introduce and implement new or improved methods or processes, without compromising quality or accuracy.
Provide an example of an opportunity you have taken to improve ways of working for a team or an organisation in the context of data protection. Explain how you demonstrated your focus on efficiency, innovation and quality in your answer.
PLEASE NOTE: Your answer will be used for interview selection – please draw out your skills and experience in your response. You may find it helpful to research the STAR approach when formulating your response.
A link to the capability dictionary, which outlines some of the key things we\’re looking for in your answers, can be found in the Candidate Pack attached to the advert
Competence 4
Delivers Results Through Others
Description
Harness the team to deliver results on time, to required standards and in line with organisational processes and procedures.
Provide an example of a situation when you have lead a team or group of subject matter experts to deliver results in line with business priorities and available resources. Explain your leadership approach and your role in what the team delivered.
PLEASE NOTE: Your answer will be used for interview selection – please draw out your skills and experience in your response. You may find it helpful to research the STAR approach when formulating your response.
A link to the capability dictionary, which outlines some of the key things we\’re looking for in your answers, can be found in the Candidate Pack attached to the advert
If you are applying from the Civil Service please note that the Environment Agency is not a part of HM Civil Service and you would not be a Crown Servant in the event of being appointed. Therefore, you will not be eligible for continuous service. For applicants who currently work in local government or other bodies listed in the Redundancy Payments (Continuity of Employment in Local Government etc) (Modification) Order 1999, you may be eligible for continuous service for the purpose of calculating any future redundancy payment. If you are unsure of your status then you should contact your own HR Team.
We are fully committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. We welcome flexible working patterns for all our vacancies, including job share, so please include clearly any information regarding your preferred working arrangements on your application.
We also have a Guaranteed Interview Policy to support those with a disability who are seeking employment. We have committed to guaranteeing an interview to anyone with a disability whose application meets the minimum criteria for the post.
The Environment Agency, as a Non-Departmental Public Body, is committed to providing value for money and utilises Central Government frameworks and contracts for all external recruitment needs. For this reason, we are unable to engage with the market directly through post, email or phone calls . Should you wish to become a support supplier on one of these frameworks or contracts please visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/become-a-crown-commercial-service-supplier/becoming-a-supplier-through-the-crown-commercial-service-what-you-need-to-know for more information.
Seniority level
-
Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
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Employment type
Full-time
Job function
-
Job function
Engineering and Information Technology
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Data Protection Manager - 12 month assignment - 31435 employer: Environment Agency
Contact Detail:
Environment Agency Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Data Protection Manager - 12 month assignment - 31435
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest data protection legislation and best practices. Being well-versed in GDPR and other relevant laws will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your expertise during discussions with stakeholders.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the data protection field. Attend webinars, workshops, or local meetups to connect with others who share your interests. This can lead to valuable insights and potential referrals for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss real-life scenarios where you've successfully managed data protection issues. Use the STAR method to structure your responses, focusing on your problem-solving skills and ability to influence others.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the Environment Agency's current data protection initiatives and challenges. Understanding their specific context will allow you to tailor your approach and show how you can contribute to their goals effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace Data Protection Manager - 12 month assignment - 31435
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in data protection. Focus on your qualifications, such as BCS, IAPP, or PDP, and any specific projects where you've managed complex data protection issues.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for data protection and how your skills align with the role. Mention your leadership experience and ability to influence stakeholders, as these are key aspects of the job.
Use the STAR Method: When answering competency questions, use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to structure your responses. This will help you clearly demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to deliver results through others.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Highlight your excellent communication and technical coaching skills in your application. Provide examples of how you've successfully communicated complex data protection concepts to diverse audiences.
How to prepare for a job interview at Environment Agency
✨Understand Data Protection Legislation
Make sure you have a solid grasp of data protection laws and regulations, such as GDPR. Be prepared to discuss how these laws apply to real-world scenarios and how you've navigated complex data protection issues in the past.
✨Prepare STAR Responses
Utilise the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) technique to structure your answers. This will help you clearly articulate your experiences, especially when discussing how you've influenced others or solved problems in previous roles.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
As a Data Protection Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've led teams or projects, particularly in high-stakes situations, and how you managed to deliver results through collaboration.
✨Emphasise Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role. Be ready to discuss how you've communicated complex data protection concepts to various stakeholders and how you've built relationships to foster collaboration and compliance.
