At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global data protection strategy and ensure compliance with privacy laws.
- Company: A leading professional services firm with a global presence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working model, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Based in Edinburgh, with excellent career advancement opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on data protection in a dynamic international environment.
- Qualifications: 3-6+ years in data protection or compliance, strong GDPR knowledge required.
Global Data Protection Officer - Professional Services
Salary: £75,000–£85,000
Location: Edinburgh
Working Model: 1 day a week in office (moving to 2–3 days per week)
About the Company/Role
A leading professional services firm operating across multiple international markets is looking for a Global Data Protection Officer. With a global presence across the UK, US, Caribbean, and Asia, they provide end-to-end strategic support to help businesses and institutions navigate complex regulatory environments.
The Global Data Protection Officer (DPO) will lead the group’s global data protection strategy, ensuring alignment with GDPR, UK DPA 2018, and relevant data privacy laws across jurisdictions.
Role and Responsibilities
- Act as the firm’s designated Global DPO and main contact for data protection queries
- Develop, maintain, and oversee the global data protection framework
- Advise senior leadership, staff, and professional teams on compliance obligations
- Manage all data subject rights requests and maintain the Record of Processing Activities (RoPA)
- Review and monitor compliance policies and processes
- Support completion of DPIAs and manage data breach responses
- Conduct compliance monitoring reviews and provide reports to senior stakeholders
- Deliver data protection training and foster a culture of compliance across the business
Requirements
Essential:
- 3-6+ years’ experience in data protection, compliance, or legal functions (ideally within a regulated firm)
- Strong understanding of GDPR, UK DPA 2018, PECR, and related privacy frameworks
- Experience developing and maintaining global data protection programmes
- Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills
Please note - this role is based in Edinburgh, Scotland - 2/3 days per week onsite.
This role cannot offer sponsorship at any given time. For example, a graduate or postgraduate visa would be invalid, as it expires and sponsorship would then be required.
Apply below!
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Data Protection Officer in Livingston
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to connections in the data protection field, especially those who work at firms similar to the one you're eyeing. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info that could set you apart.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your GDPR knowledge and real-world applications. We recommend practising common interview questions with a mate or even in front of the mirror to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your expertise! Bring examples of how you've handled data protection challenges in the past. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and make you a memorable candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Data Protection Officer in Livingston
How to prepare for a job interview at Harnham
✨Know Your Data Protection Laws
Make sure you brush up on GDPR, UK DPA 2018, and PECR before the interview. Being able to discuss these regulations confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with them but can also apply them in real-world scenarios.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully managed data protection compliance or handled data subject rights requests. This will help demonstrate your hands-on experience and problem-solving skills.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you’ve engaged with senior leadership and other teams in previous positions. Be ready to share how you’ve communicated complex data protection concepts to non-experts, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready about the company’s current data protection framework and challenges they face. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you.
