At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage complex information requests and provide expert advice on data protection laws.
- Company: Join HMRC, a leading public authority committed to transparency and accountability.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Opportunities for training and career growth in a dynamic team.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in public service while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Strong knowledge of FOIA and DPA legislation, with excellent communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 37850 - 46261 £ per year.
Discover a career in your hands at HMRC. Whether you're seeking purpose, growth, or a workplace that gives you a true sense of belonging, hear from some of our employees as they share their story about what it's really like to work at HMRC.
HMRC's Information Rights Unit (IRU) oversees the department's obligations under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), the Environmental Information Regulations (EIR) and Data Protection Act Subject Access Requests (SARs). The Data Protection Act (DPA) 2018 regulates how HMRC processes information relating to individuals. The Act gives individuals the right to request personal information about themselves. This is known as a SAR. The FOIA gives people a right of access to information held by public authorities. We aim to make the department more open and accountable. We also help the public understand better how we carry out our duties, why we make the decisions we do and how we spend public money. The EIR operate in a similar way to the FOIA although they relate specifically to official environmental information. HMRC currently deals with about 3,000 FOIA requests and over 100,000 SARs each year. How we handle them can have a significant impact on the department's reputation and each has a strict deadline within which to respond.
The IRU manages the departmental process for FOIA requests and SARs and provides advice to business areas across HMRC on handling this correspondence.
The Information Rights Technical Adviser will act as a subject matter expert on the application of Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and Data Protection Act (DPA) legislation within HMRC. They will manage a caseload of complex requests across both regimes, including FOI/SAR internal reviews and Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) complaints, ensuring compliance with statutory deadlines and high-quality responses. The postholder will provide technical advice and escalation support to Information Rights Advisers, lead on complex redaction tasks, and deliver training on FOIA and DPA legislation and processes across HMRC.
Key Responsibilities
- Technical Expertise and Advice: Act as a technical expert on FOIA and DPA legislation and its application within HMRC. Provide advice and guidance to Information Rights Advisers on complex cases and technical queries.
- Case Management: Actively manage a caseload of FOIA requests and SARs, ensuring processes are followed and statutory deadlines met. Take ownership of complex cases, including FOIA/SAR internal reviews and ICO complaints, working with information owners across HMRC.
- Redaction and Compliance: Undertake complex redaction tasks for FOIA and SAR cases across HMRC. Ensure compliance with legislation and internal policies in all case handling.
- Training and Guidance: Lead training sessions on FOIA and SAR processes and legislation within the IRU and across HMRC. Keep guidance documents updated, working with Business Support colleagues for administrative support.
- Continuous Improvement: Identify opportunities to improve technical processes and share best practice across the unit.
- Quality Assurance: Conduct quality checks on HO advisers' work to ensure compliance and accuracy. Work with G7 and G6 leads to develop the Quality Assurance framework within the IRU.
Essential Criteria:
- In-depth knowledge of FOIA and DPA legislation and its practical application.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills for handling complex cases.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills for drafting responses and delivering training.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet statutory deadlines.
- Proven experience providing technical advice and guidance to colleagues, supported by evidence of tangible positive outcomes or improved organisational practice.
Desirable Criteria:
- Experience managing FOIA/SAR internal reviews and ICO complaints.
- Familiarity with case management systems and redaction tools.
- Previous experience delivering training or guidance in a technical area.
HMRC operates both Flexible and Hybrid Working policies, allowing you to balance your work and personal commitments. We welcome applications from those who need to work a more flexible arrangement and will agree to requests where possible, considering our operational and customer service needs. We offer a generous leave allowance, starting at 25 days and increasing by a day for every year of qualifying service up to a maximum of 30 days.
Information Rights Technical Adviser - Cardiff Regional Centre - Ty William Morgan employer: HMRC
HMRC is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee growth and well-being, offering a supportive work culture where innovation and collaboration thrive. With flexible and hybrid working policies, generous leave allowances, and a commitment to continuous improvement, employees can achieve a healthy work-life balance while contributing to meaningful public service. Located in Birmingham's vibrant Arena Central, this role as an Operating Model Manager provides the opportunity to lead impactful change within a large organisation, making a real difference in how technology services are delivered.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Information Rights Technical Adviser - Cardiff Regional Centre - Ty William Morgan
✨Dive into Local Government Events
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We think you need these skills to ace Information Rights Technical Adviser - Cardiff Regional Centre - Ty William Morgan
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for HMRC and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at HMRC
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with HMRC, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for HMRC.
