At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a high-performing Privacy team and shape data protection strategy across the Group.
- Company: Join 1st Central, an award-winning insurance company with a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, excellent work culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a company that values diversity and offers a vibrant workplace.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in data protection while working with a dynamic and supportive team.
- Qualifications: Significant experience in data protection roles and expert knowledge of privacy legislation 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.
EEO Statement: 1st Central is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all backgrounds.
Group Head of Data Protection in Haywards Heath employer: First Central Services UK Ltd
At 1st Central, we pride ourselves on being a top employer, recognised as Insurance Employer of the Year at the British Insurance Awards 2024. Our vibrant work culture fosters collaboration and innovation, providing ample opportunities for professional growth within a supportive environment. With a focus on data protection at the core of our operations, you will play a pivotal role in shaping our privacy strategy while enjoying the benefits of working for a rapidly growing company that values its employees as much as its customers.
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 in Haywards Heath
✨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 you chat with folks about data protection, the better your chances of landing that Group Head of Data Protection role.
✨Show Off Your Expertise
When you get the chance to meet potential employers, don’t hold back on showcasing your knowledge of GDPR and data privacy legislation. Share your insights and experiences; it’ll set you apart as a strong candidate who knows their stuff!
✨Tailor Your Approach
Every company is different, so make sure you tailor your discussions to highlight how your skills align with their specific needs. For 1st Central, focus on how you can help them maintain their excellent service while ensuring top-notch data protection.
✨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 genuinely interested in being part of the 1st Central team.
We think you need these skills to ace Group Head of Data Protection in Haywards Heath
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 relevant qualifications. 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. Keep it engaging and make it personal – we love a bit of personality!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a senior role, we’re looking for someone who can lead a high-performing team. Share examples of your leadership experience and how you've successfully managed projects or teams in the past. We want to know how you inspire others!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Let’s get your application rolling!
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 GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018, and other relevant legislation. Being able to discuss these laws confidently will show that you're not just familiar with them, but that you can apply them in a practical 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 built and managed teams in the past, and be ready to discuss your vision for fostering a data privacy culture within the company.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific data protection scenarios or incidents. Think through potential challenges you might face in this role and prepare structured responses that highlight your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking.
✨Engage with Stakeholder Management
Since you'll be advising senior leaders and interfacing with various stakeholders, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and persuasively. Be ready to discuss how you would build relationships across the Group and influence decision-making on privacy strategy.
