At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead data protection matters and advise clients on UK and EU regulations.
- Company: Join Harper James, a modern law firm supporting entrepreneurial businesses.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, 33 days holiday, private healthcare, and flexible remote work.
- Other info: Work in a relaxed, informal setting with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a tech-driven environment with a collaborative team.
- Qualifications: 10+ years PQE in data protection law and strong client relationship skills.
The predicted salary is between 75600 - 92400 £ per year.
Harper James is a growing, ambitious commercial law firm like no other. We are expanding our commercial team and have exciting opportunities for Senior Data Protection Solicitors with 10+ years’ post-qualification experience (PQE) to join the team. The workload is varied and you will support businesses of different sizes across a range of sectors.
About Harper James: Harper James is a modern, ambitious law firm built to support entrepreneurial businesses with accessible, high-quality legal services. We combine legal expertise with a commercial mindset and a scalable operating model designed for growth.
Remote working: We offer truly remote working, with access to meeting space in Birmingham, Cambridge, London, Manchester, Oxford, Southampton, Cardiff and Sheffield. We work hard to make sure our lawyers feel part of the team. We collaborate on client and internal projects, share ideas and enjoy each other’s company. Our remote set-up lets you work from where suits you, giving you the flexibility you need, whatever the reason.
What we’re looking for: We are looking for a Senior Data Protection Solicitor with 10+ years’ PQE and strong experience advising on UK and European data protection law in a fast-paced, client-focused environment. You will be confident leading matters and managing client relationships, with a track record of delivering pragmatic, commercially-minded advice. Your experience will include areas such as:
- Advising on UK data protection compliance, governance and risk.
- Supporting data subject rights requests, DPIAs and other compliance processes.
- Advising on international data transfers, ePrivacy, cookies and direct marketing.
- Drafting and negotiating data processing and data-sharing agreements.
- Advising on AI and other emerging technology issues.
- Supporting data breach response, incident management and engagement with regulators.
- Awareness of EU GDPR and global privacy developments.
- Ability to support clients handling special category or sensitive data across a range of sectors.
- Providing data protection input on technology, commercial, corporate and employment matters.
Strong drafting and negotiation skills are essential, alongside the ability to turn complex legal and technical issues into clear, practical guidance for clients. You will be collaborative, proactive and comfortable working closely with growing and innovative businesses across a range of sectors. You will also be happy to work alongside colleagues in our commercial, technology, employment and corporate teams to give clients joined-up advice.
The Harper James difference: We are a tech-driven, agile law firm. Our lawyers have access to legal technology that helps maximise efficiency, productivity and work-life balance. We welcome proactive, self-motivated solicitors who thrive in a modern workplace and care about delivering an excellent client experience. We are relaxed and informal, but super organised. We trust you to manage your work responsibly and support you to succeed.
You’ll excel as part of the Harper James team if you:
- Are a quick learner, ready to adapt to new systems and technologies.
- Are excited to use AI tools to improve efficiency and productivity.
- Have a solid working knowledge of Microsoft 365 products, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.
- Can confidently use SharePoint to manage and collaborate on projects.
- Have a keen eye for detail when drafting documents, ensuring consistency and professionalism.
- Communicate openly and are comfortable having constructive conversations to find solutions.
- Value collaboration, humility and helping your colleagues succeed.
The bottom line: This is an opportunity to play an important part in the growth of the business, working with a great team of people who all contribute to our continued success. An environment with no politics and no bureaucracy.
Benefits include:
- Competitive salary
- 33 days’ holiday, including public holidays, with the option to buy up to five additional days each year
- Private healthcare
- Death in service benefit
- Access to our electric car scheme
- Flexible working as part of a fully remote but collaborative team
NO AGENCIES PLEASE
Senior Data Protection Solicitor employer: Harper James
Harper James is an exceptional employer that champions a flexible and supportive work environment, perfect for experienced professionals seeking to balance their career with personal commitments. With a focus on innovation and efficiency, employees are encouraged to grow through diverse client interactions and a collaborative culture, making it an ideal place for those passionate about data protection law in a tech-driven landscape.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Data Protection Solicitor
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including Harper James, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Data Protection Solicitor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Harper James, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in Harper James and the specific role of Senior Data Protection Solicitor. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for Harper James’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Harper James
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at Harper James.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at Harper James.
