Data Protection Officer

We have an incredibly exciting opportunity to join us as a Data Protection Officer. This is a brand-new role within the organisation, so you are really able to put your mark on the role. The role's purpose is to operate independently and provide assurance that we remain GDPR and data protection law compliant. You will be offering expert advice on data protection matters, and supporting employees and data processors in understanding their obligations. We own and manage c.7,500 homes in the east of England, working closely with other agencies and stakeholders within our communities. This is a hybrid position that will require you to come into the office 3 days per week.

Outline of Key Responsibilities:

• Act as the contact point, and cooperate with, the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), or other supervisory authority, in respect of data protection matters.
• Provide expert data protection and privacy advice, guidance and information to staff and leadership regarding processing data and legal obligations.
• Influence and persuade decision making to ensure compliance and best practice in data protection.
• Develop and deliver a data governance framework which enforces principles of data ownership and assurance including the adherence to retention and destruction policy.
• Develop and implement data quality standards, policies, and controls, through departmental collaboration to identify and resolve data quality issues and support continuous improvement in data quality.
• Deliver periodic informal and formal training and awareness activity.
• Ensure that data protection training is undertaken throughout the organisation and is suitable for the level of responsibility at each level.

We are looking for someone who has:

• Able to influence decision making and offer persuasive arguments in ensuring compliance in a practical manner.
• Fosters productive working relationships with stakeholders, colleagues, board members, and data subjects.
• Able to clearly advise on complex data protection obligations.
• Demonstrable experience as a Data Protection Officer, or similarly fulfilling a data protection compliance assurance function.
• Expert understanding of the GDPR and practical application of all relevant data protection law.

In return, we are offering:

• An annual salary of £50,355.00.
• We are committed to providing a healthy work-life balance for employees and their families, as such we operate full hybrid working conditions from home and our office in Bury St Edmunds.
• Flexible working around a 37 hour week.
• Annual Leave - 28 days per year, (plus bank holidays) increasing to 32 days when you reach your 3rd year with us.
• To give greater flexibility around your holidays you can also buy, sell or carry over up to 5 days of annual leave each year.
• Pension – between 7% - 12% dependant on individual contribution.
• Life assurance - a payment of X3 your salary.
• Annual Flu Jab - provided each winter to all employees.
• Electric Vehicle salary sacrifice scheme - plus we currently have free electric charging points.
• Competitive medical cashback plan.

At Havebury we operate a no closing date policy and evaluate candidates upon application. Therefore please apply without delay. Due to the nature of some of our roles involving work with vulnerable members of society, this post may be subject to a Basic Criminal Disclosure, which will be carried out when a conditional offer is made. Please ensure you fully answer the questions on the application form.