At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead data protection efforts and ensure compliance with UK GDPR.
- Company: Join Orwell, a people-first organisation making a real difference.
- Benefits: 22 days annual leave, health plan, ongoing training, and recognition awards.
- Other info: Inclusive culture with opportunities for growth and support for diverse candidates.
- Why this job: Shape data protection strategies and make a meaningful impact every day.
- Qualifications: Strong expertise in data protection and a recognised qualification required.
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.
What we're looking for
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.
Apply with Confidence
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 or emailing.
Orwell Housing Association Limited collects and processes personal data in accordance with applicable data protection laws.
Data Protection Officer in Stowmarket employer: Orwell Housing Association
Orwell Housing Association is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being of its employees and the communities it serves. With a strong commitment to inclusivity, ongoing training, and a supportive leadership team, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact as a Data Protection Officer in a collaborative environment. Enjoy a range of benefits including generous leave, health plans, and professional development opportunities, all while working in a hybrid model from our Ipswich office.
Contact Details:
Orwell Housing Association Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Data Protection Officer in Stowmarket
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Orwell on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on UK GDPR and data protection principles. We want you to show off your expertise, so think of real-life examples where you've made a difference in data protection.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just wait for the interview; engage with Orwell’s social media. Comment on their posts or share relevant articles. It shows your interest and helps you stand out as a proactive candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and ready to make a difference.
We think you need these skills to ace Data Protection Officer in Stowmarket
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly:Before you start your application, make sure to read through the entire job description. It’s packed with important details about what we’re looking for and how you can shine in your application.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic CV and cover letter! Make sure to highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with the Data Protection Officer role. We want to see how you can contribute to our mission!
Showcase Your Passion for Data Protection:In your application, let us know why you’re passionate about data protection and how you’ve demonstrated this in your previous roles. We love candidates who are genuinely excited about making a difference!
Apply Through Our Website:When you’re ready to submit your application, make sure to apply through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered promptly!
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, recent case studies, and how they apply to the housing and care sectors. This will show your potential employer that you're not just familiar with the regulations but can also apply them in real-world scenarios.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in data protection scenarios. Think about past experiences where you've managed data breaches or conducted DPIAs. Prepare specific examples that highlight your expertise and how you’ve influenced organisational culture around data protection.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a DPO, you'll be advising senior leaders and training staff. Practice articulating complex data protection concepts in simple terms. During the interview, focus on how you can effectively communicate the importance of data protection across all levels of the organisation.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Data Protection
Employers want to see that you're genuinely interested in data protection and its impact on people's lives. Share your motivations for pursuing this role and any relevant projects or initiatives you've been involved in. This will help convey your commitment to safeguarding personal data and fostering a culture of compliance.
