Head of Data Compliance in Woking

About Us

Roke is a world‑class engineering and technology company with a trusted and long‑standing record of delivery spanning research & development, products, managed services, and consultancy serving customers across the globe. The markets Roke operates in are broad but they are frequently cross‑cutting at engineering and delivery levels. Markets include Defence, National Security, and Intelligence sectors with diversity being at the centre of Roke's team united by purpose and ambition. You’ll be at the heart of an exciting growth; every individual counts. We push past technical boundaries together. We re‑invest in product innovation and we empower our people to make a difference.

Role

This is a senior role where you will take the lead on all data protection, GDPR compliance, and wider data compliance issues as well as data risk matters. The role has arisen due to the incumbent retiring from the Company. You will report directly to the General Counsel. We welcome applications from those who come from a different industry to ours and from both public or private sector organisations; we understand that diversity of thought brings its own benefits to Roke and a fresh perspective on how we do things. This role may be a level transfer from someone who wishes to take on a new challenge or a promotion for someone who wishes to progress to the next level in their career. We understand that different people have different skills and experiences and therefore you might not be able to meet every responsibility or have the necessary experience listed below. However, we appreciate that you will bring other skills and experiences to us and would therefore encourage you to apply. You have nothing to lose!

Key Responsibilities

• Leadership: Proven leadership experience in data protection and the ability to influence senior stakeholders and communicate effectively. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships both within the team and with stakeholders across the Company including Engineers, Project Managers, Finance, HR, Supply, and Commercial.
• Governance & Compliance: Act as the primary point of contact for data privacy matters across the Company and implement strategies, policies, and controls to ensure compliance with data protection statutory records including Records of Processing Activities and Legitimate Interest to Data Subject Access Requests. Monitor regulatory developments and update internal policies.
• Management & Documentation: Ensure Privacy by Design principles are embedded in projects including assisting with the preparation of Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs).
• Incident Management & Security: Lead investigations into suspected or actual data breaches ensuring timely assessments, containment, documentation, root cause analysis, and making recommendations to General Counsel on appropriate actions. Collaborate with the Security Team on information security to ensure robust data security.
• Third‑Party Oversight: Review of data protection clauses in contracts, Data Processing Agreements, and Standard Contractual Clauses with the Supply and Commercial Teams to ensure compliance with data protection.
• Reporting: Define and track KPIs for data protection and execute regular internal audits to identify and mitigate risks. Engage with relevant regulatory bodies including the ICO when necessary.
• Emerging Technologies & AI Governance: Working knowledge of utilising artificial intelligence within a technology business, measuring the associated risks and experience in leveraging its potential use as an enabler when used responsibly.
• Cyber Security: Knowledge of cyber security principles and practices. Knowledge and awareness of ISO standards and/or any other standards relating to data/cyber security (NIST Cyber Essentials).

Desirable: Experience in working in a Technology or National Security environment.

Competitive Salary & Benefits:

• Competitive salary
• DV clearance bonus (if applicable)
• Performance‑related bonus scheme
• Hybrid working
• Contributory pension plan
• Sharesave Scheme
• 30 days of annual leave with the option to purchase an additional 5
• Benefits platform packed with lifestyle discounts
• Healthcare cash plan

And we can also offer:

• Learning & Development - We offer lots of opportunities whether you join us for a short stint or the long game; you're good to grow with us. Including fully funded professional qualifications and leadership development.
• Inclusion & Belonging - Everyone is welcome at Roke. We want you to feel confident and valued for who you are.
• Variety - Our work is fast-paced with lots of variety; you'll build a diverse skill set and learn a lot in a fast-moving business!

Clearances: Due to the nature of this role, we require you to be eligible to achieve SC clearance. As a result, you should be a British Citizen and have resided in the United Kingdom for the last 5 years.

Next Step: Click apply, submitting an up‑to‑date CV setting out how you meet the above criteria. There is no need for a cover letter, but you may send one if you wish! If you would like to discuss this role in more detail, please contact Shahzad Hamid.