At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead data protection efforts and ensure compliance with UK GDPR while advising all levels of the organisation.
- Company: Join Orwell, a people-first organisation dedicated to making a difference in communities.
- Benefits: Enjoy 22 days annual leave, health plans, ongoing training, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace committed to diversity and supporting all team members.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact by safeguarding personal data and shaping data protection culture.
- Qualifications: Strong expertise in data protection and a recognised qualification are essential.
The predicted salary is between 41191 - 41191 £ per year.
Salary: £41,191 per annum
Contract: Permanent. Hours: Full time. Monday - Friday. 37 hours per week
Location: Ipswich/Hybrid (minimum of 2 days a week in the office) (Due to the on‑site requirements and commitments of this role, applicants must be able to attend our Ipswich office at short notice.)
At Orwell, we're driven by a simple belief: Together we make a difference. As our Data Protection Officer, you'll play a pivotal role in safeguarding the personal data of our customers, colleagues and partners, ensuring we continue to deliver housing, care and support services with integrity and trust at our core.
This is a high‑impact role where you will act as Orwell's named DPO under UK GDPR, providing independent, expert advice across the organisation. You'll work closely with our Executive Team, Leadership Team, IT colleagues and operational services to embed a strong culture of data protection by design and default.
Key Responsibilities- Leading Orwell's data protection and information governance function, ensuring compliance with UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018 and ICO requirements.
- Providing independent advice, assurance and practical guidance to colleagues at all levels.
- Overseeing key areas such as DPIAs, data breach management, Subject Access Requests, third‑party processor due diligence and information governance frameworks.
- Supporting digital and IT projects to ensure privacy is built in from the start.
- Delivering training, raising awareness and championing best practice across the organisation.
- Acting as the primary point of contact for the ICO and providing regular assurance reporting to senior leaders and the Board.
You'll bring strong expertise in data protection, ideally with experience as a DPO or senior data protection specialist in a regulated environment. You'll have a deep understanding of UK GDPR, information governance principles and risk management, along with the confidence to advise senior leaders and influence organisational culture. A recognised data protection qualification is essential, and experience within housing, care or the wider not‑for‑profit sector would be an advantage.
Why join Orwell?You'll be part of an organisation that genuinely puts people first - our customers, our communities and our colleagues. You'll have the autonomy to shape our data protection approach, the support of a collaborative leadership team and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference every day. Alongside our inclusive culture and commitment to our PACE values, we offer a wide range of benefits, including:
- 22 days annual leave (pro rata) plus bank holidays
- Reward and recognition awards
- Cashback Health plan
- Access to Blue Light Card - membership fees apply
- Ongoing training and development & opportunities to progress in your role through the Orwell Academy
- Wellbeing programme
For full details of responsibilities, requirements and person specification, please refer to the complete job description attached.
Closing date for applications: 12th June
Interviews: 17th June
Before applying… Orwell is committed to safeguarding, safer employment practices and upholding the principles of empowerment. Please note Orwell Housing Association does not provide visa sponsorship. You must be eligible to work in the UK to apply. You will be required to provide the relevant right to work documentation if successfully appointed to the role.
Orwell is proud to be a Disability Confident Leader. We believe in creating an accessible and supportive environment, where every team member can thrive and contribute. Join us in our commitment to building a workplace that celebrates diversity and empowers all individuals to reach their full potential. We actively welcome applications from candidates with disabilities and are dedicated to making reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process to ensure equal access and opportunity for all.
We know that diverse teams drive innovation and deliver better outcomes. Research shows that people from underrepresented groups often hesitate to apply for roles unless they meet every requirement. If you're excited about this opportunity but don't meet every listed qualification, we still encourage you to apply anyway. Your unique experiences, perspectives, skills and most importantly your alignment with our culture and values could be exactly what we're looking for.
We are committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected and supported to succeed. If there is anything that might prevent you from applying for one of our roles, we want to help remove that barrier. Please contact our Talent team by calling 01473 228782 or emailing work@orwell-housing.co.uk.
Orwell Housing Association Limited collects and processes personal data in accordance with applicable data protection laws. Please see the Privacy Notice - https://www.orwell-housing.co.uk/about-us/privacy-policy/
By applying to this job you agree you have read, understand and accept the content of the Privacy Notice - https://www.orwell-housing.co.uk/about-us/privacy-policy/consent to the processing of your data as part of this application.
For additional recruitment documents, policies and career guidance, check our career hub - Career Hub | Orwell Housing.
Data Protection Officer in Ipswich employer: Orwell Housing Association
At Orwell, we prioritise our people and foster a collaborative work culture that empowers you to make a meaningful impact as our Data Protection Officer. With a commitment to ongoing training and development through the Orwell Academy, you'll have ample opportunities for professional growth while enjoying a range of benefits including a cashback health plan and a wellbeing programme. Join us in Ipswich, where your expertise will help shape our data protection approach in a supportive environment that values diversity and inclusion.
Contact Details:
Orwell Housing Association Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Data Protection Officer in Ipswich
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the data protection field and let them know you're on the hunt for a Data Protection Officer role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your UK GDPR knowledge and real-life scenarios. We want you to showcase your expertise, so think of examples where you've successfully navigated data protection challenges. This will help you stand out as the go-to person for the role!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to research Orwell and its values! Understanding their commitment to safeguarding and community support will not only help you tailor your responses but also show that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining Orwell and ready to make a difference in data protection.
We think you need these skills to ace Data Protection Officer in Ipswich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in data protection. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Data Protection Officer, so don’t hold back on showcasing your expertise!
Showcase Relevant Experience:When detailing your previous roles, focus on your experience with UK GDPR and information governance. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so any specific examples of your work in this area will really stand out.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key achievements are easy to spot. This helps us quickly see why you’d be a great fit for our team!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join us at Orwell and be part of our mission.
How to prepare for a job interview at Orwell Housing Association
✨Know Your GDPR Inside Out
As a Data Protection Officer, you'll need to demonstrate a solid understanding of UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018. Brush up on key principles, rights, and obligations so you can confidently discuss how you would ensure compliance within the organisation.
✨Showcase Your Advisory Skills
This role involves providing independent advice to various teams. Prepare examples of how you've successfully advised colleagues in the past, particularly in high-stakes situations. Highlight your ability to influence and foster a culture of data protection.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios, such as handling data breaches or conducting DPIAs. Think through potential challenges you might face in this role and how you would address them effectively.
✨Emphasise Your Collaborative Spirit
You'll be working closely with different teams, so it's crucial to show that you're a team player. Share experiences where you've collaborated on projects, especially those involving IT or digital initiatives, to illustrate your ability to embed privacy by design.
