At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead data protection initiatives and ensure compliance with UK GDPR and Data Protection Act.
- Company: Join Affidea UK and Fortius Clinic, leaders in healthcare innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a chance to influence data protection culture.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities to work closely with senior leadership.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on data protection in a dynamic healthcare environment.
- Qualifications: Recognised data protection qualification and strong expertise in UK GDPR.
The predicted salary is between 46000 - 52000 £ per year.
Affidea UK and Fortius Clinic are looking for an experienced and highly motivated Data Protection Officer (DPO) to act as our organisation’s designated DPO under the UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018. This is a key leadership role with independent oversight, direct access to senior leadership, and functional alignment with the Group Data Protection Officer. You will play a critical role in embedding a culture of data protection excellence across the organisation, ensuring the consistent implementation of Affidea’s group data protection framework within the UK.
Key Responsibilities
- Governance & Compliance
- Act as the named DPO under UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018
- Develop, maintain, and continuously improve data protection policies, frameworks, and procedures
- Monitor compliance, including NHS Data Security and Protection (DSP) Toolkit requirements
- Maintain and oversee the Record of Processing Activities (ROPA)
- Lead and oversee Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs)
- Ensure implementation of data protection standards, privacy notices, retention frameworks, and local controls
- Maintain clear documentation and elevate significant risks to senior leadership and Group DPO
- Regulatory Engagement
- Serve as the primary contact for the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO)
- Managing regulatory audits, investigations, and enquiries
- Track regulatory developments and provide expert guidance
- Data Subject Rights & Incidents
- Oversee responses to DSARs and other data subject rights requests
- Lead data breach response, including assessment and notification where required
- Maintain and report on incident and breach logs
- Third Parties & Contracts
- Advise on data processing agreements, data sharing agreements, and international data transfers
- Conduct due diligence on third-party processors
- Provide data protection input into procurement, contracts, and technology implementation
- Culture, Training & Advisory
- Deliver and oversee tailored data protection training across the organisation
- Advise clinical, operational, and digital teams on data protection matters
- Promote privacy by design and default
- Support governance around AI use and emerging technologies
- Participate in or chair Information Governance forums
About You
Qualifications
- Recognised data protection qualification (e.g. CIPP/E, BCS Certificate in Data Protection, IAPP)
- Full UK driving licence
- Willingness to travel regularly across UK sites
Experience
- Strong expertise in UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018
- Experience engaging with the ICO
- Hands‑on experience managing:
- DPIAs
- ROPA
- DSARs
- Data breaches
- Experience working in a regulated environment (healthcare preferred)
- Knowledge of NHS information governance standards (DSP Toolkit, Data Security Standards)
- Proven ability to influence senior stakeholders
- Experience embedding privacy in digital, IT, or AI‑driven projects
Skills & Competencies
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
- Ability to translate legal requirements into practical, risk‑based advice
- High attention to detail with strong documentation capabilities
- Proactive, solutions‑focused mindset
- Solid understanding of IT systems and cybersecurity fundamentals
- Proficiency in Microsoft 365 and digital tools
Why Join Us?
- Play a strategic, high‑impact role in a leading healthcare organisation
- Work closely with senior leadership and contribute to organisational governance
- Influence how data protection supports innovation, including digital and AI initiatives
- Be part of a collaborative environment committed to high standards of care and compliance
Data Protection Officer employer: Fortius
Affidea UK and Fortius Clinic offer an exceptional work environment for a Data Protection Officer, where you will play a pivotal role in shaping data protection practices within a leading healthcare organisation. With direct access to senior leadership and opportunities for professional growth, you will thrive in a culture that values compliance, innovation, and collaboration. Join us to make a meaningful impact while enjoying the benefits of working in a supportive and dynamic team dedicated to high standards of care.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Data Protection Officer
✨Join Compliance Communities
Get involved in compliance and risk communities — both online and offline. Look for forums, LinkedIn groups, or even local meetups where compliance pros hang out. You never know who might drop a job opportunity your way!
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Keep an eye out for compliance and risk management conferences and workshops in your area. These events are a goldmine for networking, and they often have job boards or recruiters on-site looking for new talent. Plus, it’s a chance to learn what's trending in the field.
✨Leverage Your University Career Services
If you’ve recently graduated or are still studying, head over to your university's career services. Many companies, including those in compliance, actively recruit fresh talent through these services, so make sure you tap into that resource.
✨Showcase Your Knowledge Online
Start writing articles or blog posts about compliance topics that interest you. Share them on platforms like LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and passion. This not only builds your presence in the field but can also catch the attention of companies like Fortius looking for candidates who are engaged and informed.
We think you need these skills to ace Data Protection Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Understanding of Compliance:In the compliance-risk field, it's super important to showcase your understanding of regulations and risk management frameworks. Highlight any relevant coursework, certifications (like ICA or AML), or even projects that demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to this area. We want to see how you can navigate this complex landscape!
Quantify Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, try to quantify your achievements. For example, if you've previously worked on a project that improved compliance metrics or reduced risk exposure, give us the numbers! This data-driven approach really stands out to hiring managers in compliance-risk roles.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Relevant Skills:Make sure your CV highlights skills that are particularly relevant to compliance, like attention to detail, analytical thinking, and report writing. Ensure these are easy to spot – consider using bullet points to break down your responsibilities and achievements for maximum impact!
Craft a Motivating Cover Letter:In your cover letter, let us know why you’re excited about the compliance-risk role at Fortius. Share what motivates you about compliance, and how you believe you can contribute to our mission. This is your chance to showcase not only your skills but also your passion for this important field!
How to prepare for a job interview at Fortius
✨Master the Regulations
Brush up on key compliance regulations relevant to the industry you're applying to. Familiarising yourself with specific laws and frameworks used in your field will give you an edge during technical questions. Show that you’re not just aware of them but can also apply them—think real-life scenarios!
✨Show Your Analytical Skills
Compliance roles really focus on analytical skills, so be prepared for case studies or situational questions during the interview. We've got to demonstrate how we approach risk assessments or compliance audits, possibly drawing on examples from past experiences or university projects. Bring some thoughtful case scenarios to discuss!
✨Know Your Tools
Get comfortable with commonly used compliance software and tools. Familiarity with platforms like RSA or MetricStream can really impress during your interview, as it shows you're ready to hit the ground running. If you’ve had any experience with them, make sure to highlight that!
✨Align with Company Culture
Since it's a full-time position, show your long-term commitment and interest in the company’s mission and values. Dive into how your ethics and professional philosophy align with Fortius’s stance on compliance. A shared vision can really resonate with interviewers looking for fit as much as skill!
