At a Glance
- Tasks: Support data protection compliance and manage information governance across a diverse public sector organisation.
- Company: Join a local authority with a commitment to transparency and data protection.
- Benefits: Enjoy fully remote work, flexible hours, and a supportive environment.
- Other info: Great opportunity for career growth in a structured public sector setting.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on data governance while working in a meaningful role.
- Qualifications: Experience in information governance or data protection is preferred but not essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
A Local Authority is seeking an experienced Information Governance Officer to join its legal and governance function on a fully remote basis. This is an excellent opportunity to play a key role in supporting data protection compliance, transparency obligations, and wider information governance across a large and diverse public sector organisation.
The Role
You will be responsible for supporting the Authority’s compliance with information governance requirements, ensuring that data is handled lawfully, securely, and in line with statutory obligations. Key responsibilities will include:
- Managing and responding to Freedom of Information (FOI) requests within statutory deadlines
- Handling Subject Access Requests (SARs) under UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018
- Advising officers on data protection compliance, retention, and information sharing
- Supporting data breach investigations and incident response processes
- Assisting with Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) complaints and enquiries
- Maintaining and updating information governance policies, procedures and guidance
- Providing training and awareness sessions to staff across the organisation
- Supporting audits, risk assessments and compliance monitoring activities
- Liaising with internal departments to ensure consistent application of IG standards
About You
The successful candidate will ideally have experience in information governance, data protection or compliance within a public sector or similarly complex organisation. You should demonstrate:
- Strong understanding of UK GDPR, Data Protection Act 2018 and FOI legislation
- Experience handling FOI requests and/or SARs in a timely and accurate manner
- Ability to analyse information governance risks and provide practical advice
- Strong written communication and attention to detail
- Confidence working independently in a remote environment
- Ability to manage competing deadlines and a varied workload
- Good stakeholder engagement skills across all levels of an organisation
Professional qualifications or training in data protection or information governance (e.g. CIPD, BCS, or equivalent) would be advantageous but are not essential.
What’s on Offer
- Fully remote working arrangement
- Flexible and supportive working environment
- Opportunity to work within a busy and well-structured public sector organisation
- Meaningful work supporting transparency and data protection compliance
- Competitive salary/rate depending on experience
Information Governance Officer employer: The Oyster Partnership
As a Local Authority, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that values transparency, compliance, and employee well-being. Our fully remote working arrangement offers flexibility and a supportive environment, allowing you to thrive while contributing to meaningful work in the public sector. With opportunities for professional growth and a commitment to fostering a culture of collaboration, we ensure that our Information Governance Officers are equipped to make a significant impact in their roles.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Information Governance Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the public sector or information governance field. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that might not even be advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for virtual interviews by practising common questions related to data protection and compliance. We recommend setting up mock interviews with friends or using online platforms to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio or a presentation that highlights your experience with FOI requests, SARs, and data governance policies. This can really set you apart during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Information Governance Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in information governance and data protection. We want to see how your skills align with the key responsibilities mentioned in the job description.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since strong written communication is crucial for this role, ensure your application is clear, concise, and free of errors. We love attention to detail, so take the time to proofread before hitting send!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Don’t forget to mention any specific experience you have with FOI requests, SARs, or compliance monitoring. We’re looking for candidates who can demonstrate their ability to handle these tasks effectively.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Oyster Partnership
✨Know Your Legislation
Make sure you brush up on UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018, and FOI legislation. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you understand the legal framework you'll be working within.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Think about real-life examples where you've handled FOI requests or SARs. Prepare to explain your thought process and how you ensured compliance with deadlines and regulations. This will demonstrate your practical experience.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be advising officers and providing training, it's crucial to highlight your strong written and verbal communication skills. Be ready to discuss how you've effectively communicated complex information in the past.
✨Demonstrate Stakeholder Engagement
Be prepared to talk about how you've engaged with various stakeholders in previous roles. Highlight your ability to manage competing deadlines and how you’ve maintained relationships across different levels of an organisation.
