At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage complex Data Subject Access Requests and collaborate on innovative legal solutions.
- Company: Join a rapidly growing Data Protection team in Birmingham.
- Benefits: Opportunity for hands-on client exposure and clear career progression.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on process improvement and legal tech.
- Why this job: Shape the future of data protection law with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: 2-3 years PQE in data protection and strong knowledge of UK GDPR.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 € per year.
Department: Managed Legal Services - Shared Legal Resource
Location: Birmingham
What we can offer:
- Join a rapidly growing and strategically important Data Protection team at the forefront of complex, high-volume DSAR and disclosure work, with genuine opportunity to shape how the service evolves over the next 12–18 months.
- Work on market-leading, technology-enabled matters that combine legal advisory, eDiscovery and operational delivery - ideal for lawyers who enjoy both technical data protection analysis and innovative ways of working.
- Be part of a collaborative and forward-thinking environment with clear progression opportunities, hands‑on client exposure and the chance to help build scalable solutions in one of the fastest-growing areas of legal services.
We’re looking for a talented Solicitor to join our growing Data Protection team, supporting clients with complex, high-volume Data Subject Access Requests (DSARs) and related document review matters. This is an exciting opportunity to join a collaborative and forward‑thinking team at a key stage of growth, helping shape a scalable, technology‑enabled DSAR offering that combines legal expertise, process excellence and innovative delivery solutions.
Working closely with clients, colleagues and third‑party providers, you’ll manage DSARs at scale, advise on complex disclosure issues and support large‑scale document review exercises involving sensitive personal data. Alongside hands‑on legal work, you’ll also contribute to process improvement initiatives, playbooks and the continued evolution of our DSAR capability.
Key Responsibilities
- Managing large‑scale and complex DSARs, including repeat and coordinated requests
- Conducting and overseeing document reviews across structured and unstructured data sources, including emails, messaging platforms, HR systems and shared drives
- Advising on disclosure obligations, exemptions and redaction approaches
- Applying UK GDPR and Data Protection Act principles in a practical and commercially focused way
- Supporting clients with scope assessments, search methodologies and proportionality considerations
- Working with eDiscovery and legal technology platforms to support efficient review processes
- Drafting DSAR responses and supporting decision‑making around partial or withheld disclosures
- Advising on statutory deadlines, extensions and ICO‑related matters
- Supporting process improvement initiatives, templates, playbooks and training materials
- Collaborating with colleagues across legal, operations and technology teams to deliver scalable solutions
Skills, Knowledge & Expertise
We’re interested in hearing from solicitors who are technically strong, commercially minded and enjoy working in a collaborative, evolving environment. You’ll likely have:
- 2–3 years’ PQE with experience in data protection and privacy law
- Strong working knowledge of UK GDPR and ICO guidance
- Experience managing DSARs, disclosure exercises or document review projects
- Familiarity with eDiscovery or legal review platforms
- Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail
- The ability to manage competing priorities and work to deadlines
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
- A proactive, solutions‑focused mindset with an interest in process improvement and legal technology
Experience in disputes, investigations, employment or regulatory work would also be beneficial.
Solicitor (2-3 PQE) - Data Law in Birmingham employer: Shakespeare Martineau
Join a dynamic and innovative team in Birmingham, where you will have the opportunity to work at the forefront of data protection law within a rapidly growing environment. Our collaborative culture fosters professional growth, offering clear progression paths and hands-on client exposure, while you contribute to shaping scalable, technology-enabled solutions in a key area of legal services.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Solicitor (2-3 PQE) - Data Law in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who are already in data protection. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Get your interview game on point! Research common questions for solicitors in data law and practice your answers. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your tech-savvy side! Familiarise yourself with eDiscovery tools and legal tech platforms. Mentioning your experience with these during interviews will definitely make you stand out.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Solicitor (2-3 PQE) - Data Law in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your 2-3 years of PQE in data protection and any relevant projects you've worked on, especially those involving DSARs or document reviews.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're excited about joining our Data Protection team and how your background aligns with our needs. Don’t forget to mention your proactive mindset and interest in legal technology!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves collaborating with clients and colleagues, make sure to demonstrate your strong communication skills in your application. Use clear and concise language, and maybe even share an example of how you’ve effectively managed stakeholder relationships in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Shakespeare Martineau
✨Know Your Data Protection Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of UK GDPR and the latest ICO guidance. Be ready to discuss how these principles apply in real-world scenarios, especially in managing DSARs and disclosure obligations.
✨Show Off Your Organisational Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your ability to manage large-scale document reviews and competing priorities. Think about specific projects where you successfully juggled multiple tasks and met tight deadlines.
✨Be Ready to Collaborate
Since this role involves working closely with clients and various teams, be prepared to discuss your experience in collaborative environments. Share instances where you contributed to process improvements or worked with technology platforms.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t shy away from asking questions that show your interest in the role and the team’s future. Inquire about their current challenges with DSARs or how they envision the evolution of their data protection services.
