At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead data protection strategy and ensure compliance across a global organisation.
- Company: Join Serco, a global leader in essential public services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus potential, company car, pension, and 25 days leave.
- Other info: Flexible working options and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Shape privacy governance while influencing key decisions in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in data protection and strong knowledge of UK GDPR.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 88000 £ per year.
Location: Flexible UK (Hybrid with regular travel to Hook and London)
Data is one of Serco's most valuable assets and protecting it is fundamental to the trust our customers, governments and millions of citizens place in us every day. We're looking for an exceptional Group & UK Data Protection Officer (DPO) to provide independent oversight of data protection across our global business, while fulfilling the statutory responsibilities of the UK Data Protection Officer.
This is far more than a compliance role. You'll help shape how privacy supports innovation across a business operating in defence, justice, transport, healthcare, citizen services and other critical public services. From emerging technologies and AI governance to complex international data transfers, you'll ensure privacy remains central to every decision we make.
Operating independently, you'll advise and challenge senior leaders, influence strategic decisions and provide assurance that Serco continues to meet the highest standards of data protection and governance.
A role with influence across the organisation
Reporting with statutory independence, you'll work across Group functions and the UK business, partnering with executive leaders, legal, cyber security, digital, risk and operational teams to embed privacy into everything we do. You'll shape our global privacy framework, provide oversight of UK data protection compliance and ensure privacy risks are understood, managed and reported effectively.
Whether advising on a major transformation programme, supporting the responsible adoption of AI, engaging with regulators or helping the business navigate evolving legislation, you'll play a critical role in protecting both individuals and Serco's reputation.
What you'll be doing
- As Group & UK Data Protection Officer, you'll provide independent leadership across all aspects of privacy governance, including:
- Acting as Serco's statutory UK Data Protection Officer while providing strategic oversight of privacy across the wider Group.
- Developing and evolving Serco's global privacy framework, governance standards and assurance model.
- Advising senior leaders on complex privacy risks, regulatory requirements and emerging legislation.
- Providing independent oversight of Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) and high-risk processing activities.
- Supporting major business change, digital transformation, supplier arrangements and AI-enabled solutions by embedding privacy by design.
- Leading the organisation's approach to personal data incidents, regulatory notifications and lessons learned.
- Acting as the principal point of contact with regulators, supervisory authorities and data subjects within your DPO remit.
- Monitoring organisational compliance through assurance activity, audits, reporting and governance reviews.
- Providing clear reporting to Executive leadership and governance forums on privacy performance, emerging risks and regulatory developments.
Who we're looking for
This is an opportunity for an experienced privacy leader who combines technical expertise with sound judgement, commercial awareness and the confidence to influence at the highest levels. You'll bring:
- Extensive experience in a senior data protection, privacy, governance or compliance leadership role.
- Expert knowledge of UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018, and a strong understanding of EU GDPR and wider international privacy requirements.
- Experience operating within a complex, highly regulated or multinational organisation.
- The ability to translate legislation into pragmatic, risk-based advice that enables business success while maintaining compliance.
- Experience engaging confidently with executive leadership, regulators and external stakeholders.
- Strong understanding of privacy governance, information lifecycle management, international data transfers and records management.
- An appreciation of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, automated decision-making and the evolving privacy landscape.
- Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the confidence to provide independent challenge where required.
- Professional privacy qualifications such as CIPP/E, CIPM or equivalent would be highly desirable.
Why Serco?
Serco delivers services that make a difference to millions of people across the UK and around the world. With operations spanning multiple sectors and jurisdictions, data protection plays a critical role in maintaining the confidence of governments, customers, employees and the public. This position offers a unique opportunity to influence privacy strategy across a complex international organisation while maintaining the independence expected of a statutory Data Protection Officer.
You'll work alongside senior leaders across Legal, Risk, Cyber Security, Digital, AI Governance and Operational teams, helping shape how Serco manages privacy in an increasingly digital world.
What we offer
- A competitive six figure salary
- On target bonus of 20%, with potential for 40%
- Company car or car allowance
- 10% contributory pension
- PMI for you and a partner
- 25 days leave
Ready to make an impact? If you're looking for a role where you can combine independent oversight with strategic influence and help shape privacy across a global organisation, we'd love to hear from you.
Join Serco and help build the trusted foundations that enable us to deliver essential services around the world.
A little bit about us:
At Serco, everyone plays a vital part in delivering essential public services that make a real difference. As a global team of 50,000 people across Defence, Transport, Justice, Immigration, Healthcare, Leisure and Citizen Services, we’re united by a shared purpose: to improve the services that communities rely on. Guided by our values of Trust, Care, Innovation and Pride, our people make meaningful impact, every single day.
Our inclusive recruitment commitment:
We prioritise your skills and potential. As a Disability Confident Leader, the Top Great British Employer of Veterans 2026, and a Gold Inclusive Employer Standard holder, we champion equal opportunities for all. We offer flexible and hybrid working where possible and make reasonable adjustments throughout recruitment and employment.
Guaranteed Interview Scheme: Applicants with disabilities, veterans and people with convictions, who meet the minimum job criteria, are guaranteed an interview. Simply opt into the relevant scheme on the application form.
Ban The Box: We also support fair access for those with unspent criminal convictions through our ‘Ban the Box’ pledge (some roles may have security exemptions).
For support with your application, please contact recruitmentuk@serco.com.
Let’s impact a better future, together. Apply today.
Group and UK Data Protection Officer in Hook employer: Serco Group
At Serco, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises safety and professional development. As an Able Seafarer (Crane Operations Lead), you will benefit from competitive salaries, a generous pension scheme, and access to over 1,100 internal courses for continuous learning and career progression. Our commitment to inclusivity and employee wellbeing, alongside unique opportunities to make a meaningful impact in public services, makes Serco a rewarding place to build your maritime career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group and UK Data Protection Officer in Hook
✨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 Serco Group looking for candidates who are engaged and informed.
We think you need these skills to ace Group and UK Data Protection Officer in Hook
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 Serco Group. 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 Serco Group
✨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 Serco Group’s stance on compliance. A shared vision can really resonate with interviewers looking for fit as much as skill!
