At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a high-performing Privacy team and shape data protection strategy across the Group.
- Company: Join 1st Central, a top-rated insurance company with a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, great work culture, and recognition as Insurance Employer of the Year.
- Other info: Be part of a culture that values diversity and promotes career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in data protection while working with a dynamic and supportive team.
- Qualifications: Significant experience in data protection and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
We’re 1st Central, a market‑leading insurance company utilising smart data and technology at pace. Rapid growth has been based on giving our 1.4 million customers exactly what they want: great value insurance with an excellent service. At 1st Central, data sits at the heart of everything we do, so protecting it is both a legal obligation and a core responsibility.
Role Overview
Group Head of Data Protection (DPO) – senior voice on all things data protection, advising the Executive, Boards and senior leaders, setting the strategic direction for privacy across the Group and leading a high‑performing Privacy team.
Key Responsibilities
- Build and lead a high‑performing Privacy team, creating a clear vision and building strong relationships across the Group.
- Advising the Executive, Boards and senior stakeholders on privacy strategy and governance.
- Define, scope, gain Audit Committee approval for, and deliver the Group’s data privacy programme.
- Implement the Group’s Data Protection Strategy and oversee compliance across all Group entities.
- Report to the Group’s Risk Committees on compliance position, key risks, incidents and matters requiring Board decisions.
- Act as Data Protection Officer for all Group entities where required, and be owner of the Group Data Protection Policy.
- Supervise the Privacy Team’s completion of data protection impact assessments and develop and execute relevant project plans.
- Manage an awareness‑raising and training programme to foster a data privacy culture.
- Review Data Protection clauses in client and supplier contracts and lead incident response and breach notification procedures.
- Serve as contact point with Data Protection Authorities and data subjects, advising on requests and response.
- Promote a culture of awareness of data security throughout the company.
- Maintain department risk registers, control matrices and attestations, and ensure compliance with Company policies, values and relevant regulations.
Required Experience & Qualifications
- Significant experience as a DPO or in a similar compliance role.
- Expert knowledge of data privacy legislation (GDPR, Data Protection Act 2018, PECR, etc.) and information security standards (ISO27001).
- Proven track record in leading data protection issues at a senior level.
- Strong project management experience and ability to interface with data protection regulators.
- Experience designing and implementing a data protection strategy.
- Degree level education; IAPP CIPP/E, CIPM or equivalent data privacy qualification preferred.
- Qualified lawyer and familiarity with UK, Gibraltarian, Guernsey and European data protection laws and practices.
Key Skills & Competencies
- Knowledge and application of FCA requirements, including Consumer Duty.
- Excellent analytical, communication, influencing and stakeholder management skills.
- Strong analytical and organisational skills; ability to prioritise and manage multiple tasks and projects.
- Ability to work independently with integrity and discretion.
- Team leadership and management capabilities.
- Positive, enthusiastic, proactive, resilient and self‑motivated attitude.
1st Central is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all backgrounds.
Group Head of Data Protection employer: First Central Services UK Ltd
At 1st Central, we pride ourselves on being an award-winning employer, recognised for our commitment to both our customers and colleagues. Our vibrant work culture fosters collaboration and innovation, while our focus on employee growth ensures that you will have ample opportunities to develop your skills in a supportive environment. Located in a dynamic sector, we offer competitive benefits and a chance to make a meaningful impact in data protection, all while enjoying a great work-life balance.
Contact Details:
First Central Services UK Ltd Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Head of Data Protection
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, webinars, or even local meetups. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Show Off Your Expertise
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, don’t hold back on showcasing your knowledge of data protection laws and strategies. Share your insights and experiences to demonstrate you’re the right fit for the role.
✨Tailor Your Approach
Every company is different, so make sure you tailor your conversations to align with their values and goals. Research 1st Central’s approach to data protection and weave that into your discussions to show you’re genuinely interested.
✨Apply Through Our Website
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 the team at 1st Central.
We think you need these skills to ace Group Head of Data Protection
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Group Head of Data Protection. Highlight your experience with data privacy legislation and any leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about data protection and how you can contribute to our team. Be sure to mention specific experiences that relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your duties; showcase your achievements! Quantify your successes where possible, like improvements in compliance rates or successful project completions. We love seeing how you've made an impact in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at First Central Services UK Ltd
✨Know Your Data Protection Legislation
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of data privacy laws like GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with the regulations, but that you can also apply them strategically in a business context.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Group Head of Data Protection, you'll need to lead a high-performing team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, focusing on your ability to create a vision and build strong relationships across departments.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific data protection incidents or compliance challenges. Think through potential scenarios and be ready to explain your thought process and decision-making strategies clearly.
✨Demonstrate Your Stakeholder Management Skills
You’ll be advising senior leaders and boards, so it’s crucial to show that you can communicate complex information effectively. Prepare to discuss how you've influenced stakeholders in previous roles and how you plan to foster a culture of data privacy awareness within the company.
