At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape and maintain our data protection compliance framework while managing risks across the business.
- Company: Marks & Spencer, a trusted name in retail with a focus on innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: 20% discount, competitive holidays, bonuses, strong pension, and 24/7 wellbeing support.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to inclusivity and personal development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on data protection while driving responsible use of AI and digital transformation.
- Qualifications: Experience in data protection roles and knowledge of UK data protection law required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
At Marks & Spencer, trust is at the heart of everything we do. As Group Data Protection Compliance Manager, you will play a key role in maintaining that trust by shaping and maintaining our group-wide data protection compliance framework. Sitting within our central Data Protection (DPO) Team and Legal function, this role works at the intersection of risk, compliance and innovation. You will partner closely with colleagues across the business to ensure data protection risks are well managed and clearly understood, enabling M&S to continue its digital transformation and drive responsible use of data and Artificial Intelligence. This is a brilliant opportunity to apply your expertise in a role that has genuine impact across the Group, while working in a collaborative, supportive and purpose-driven environment.
What You'll Do
- Maintain and enhance our data protection compliance framework, ensuring different elements work together effectively.
- Lead and support group-wide data protection risk management, ensuring risks are consistently identified, assessed, tracked and reported in line with our risk appetite.
- Develop, enhance and deliver clear, insightful compliance reporting and metrics for senior business partners, committees and governance forums.
- Maintain and evolve data protection policies, procedures and governance processes to ensure they remain robust, practical and sustainable.
- Support effective monitoring, assurance and audit activity to assess the design and operation of data protection controls across the Group.
- Drive improvements to data processing records, DPIAs and third-party due diligence, working collaboratively with Risk, Information Security and business teams.
Who You Are
- Strong experience working in a data protection or privacy role, with deep knowledge of UK data protection law and regulation.
- Proven ability to manage and advise on data protection risk in a complex, fast-moving organisation.
- Confidence providing pragmatic, solutions-focused advice to a wide range of business partners.
- Experience contributing to governance, reporting, monitoring or assurance activities.
- Data protection qualifications such as IAPP CIPP/E, CIPM or equivalent is desirable, but we also welcome candidates with equivalent practical experience.
What's in it for you
- 20% colleague discount on all M&S products and many third-party brands for you and someone in your household, available once you have completed your probation.
- Competitive holiday allowance with the option to buy more.
- Discretionary bonus schemes linked to your performance and ours.
- Strong pension and life assurance to help plan for the future.
- Tailored induction and training to support your development from day one.
- Exclusive perks and savings through our M&S Choices portal.
- Market-leading family policies, including parental, adoption and neonatal leave.
- 24/7 wellbeing support, including virtual GP access and mental health services.
- One paid volunteer day a year to support a cause that matters to you.
Everyone's welcome. We are ambitious about the future of retail. We’re disrupting, innovating and leading the industry into a more conscientious, inspiring digital era. We're transforming how we work together and offering our most exciting opportunities yet. Marks & Spencer strives to be an inclusive organisation, trusted and admired by our colleagues, customers and suppliers. We are committed to building diverse and representative teams, where everyone can bring their whole selves to work and be at their best. We support each other and work together to win together. If you feel you’d benefit from any support or reasonable adjustments during any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know when completing your application. This information will be picked up by our team, so we can try and put steps in place to help you be at your best through this process.
Group Data Protection Compliance Manager employer: Marks and Spencer plc (UK)
Marks & Spencer is an exceptional employer that prioritises trust, collaboration, and innovation within a supportive work environment. As a Group Data Protection Compliance Manager, you will benefit from competitive perks such as a generous colleague discount, flexible holiday options, and comprehensive wellbeing support, all while contributing to meaningful projects that shape the future of retail. With a strong commitment to employee development and inclusivity, M&S offers a unique opportunity to grow your career in a purpose-driven organisation.
Contact Details:
Marks and Spencer plc (UK) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Data Protection Compliance Manager
✨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 Marks and Spencer plc (UK) looking for candidates who are engaged and informed.
We think you need these skills to ace Group Data Protection Compliance Manager
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 Marks and Spencer plc (UK). 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 Marks and Spencer plc (UK)
✨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 Marks and Spencer plc (UK)’s stance on compliance. A shared vision can really resonate with interviewers looking for fit as much as skill!
