At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead data protection compliance and shape information governance across the organisation.
- Company: Join the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority, making a real difference in your community.
- Benefits: Enjoy 26 days annual leave, hybrid working, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Flexible working options and a culture of continuous learning await you.
- Why this job: Influence decision-making and embed good governance at a critical stage of development.
- Qualifications: Expertise in data protection legislation and experience in public sector governance.
The predicted salary is between 63685 - 69665 £ per year.
The West of England Mayoral Combined Authority (MCA) is seeking to appoint an experienced Data Protection Officer and Information Governance Manager to join our Legal and Governance team to provide independent oversight and expert advice on compliance with the UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018 and related legislation.
This is a great opportunity for an experienced data protection professional who can turn complex legislation into clear, practical advice and help services across the MCA to manage personal data responsibly, fairly and lawfully.
In this key role, you will act as the statutory Data Protection Officer acting autonomously and independently to carry out statutory duties and lead the MCA in data protection compliance and best practice. Reporting to the Head of Legal Services, your key responsibilities in this role will also include driving a range of strategic information governance projects, providing expert guidance to senior leaders across the organisation on a range of projects, and helping shape a strong, compliant information culture across the organisation.
You will take the strategic lead on the Information Governance Framework and all matters of Information Governance, including Data Protection, Information Rights, Freedom of Information and Records Management. You will provide effective leadership and management of the Information Governance team in delivering an efficient and effective Information Governance Service, including:
- ensuring completion of Subject Access Requests and Freedom of Information requests within statutory timeframes
- the provision of advice on data handling/processing in line with the principles laid down by UK GDPR, DPA
- the provision of advice and support in the completion of Data Protection Impact Assessments, considering risk implications and mitigation
- liaising with partner organisations and suppliers to establish compliant data flows and agreements
- advising and supporting in drawing up data sharing agreements and external third-party contracts
- dealing with data breaches/incidents, to minimise immediate risks and mitigate future breaches
Experience required includes:
- providing expert advice on all matters relating to the Data Protection Act, the UK GDPR, Freedom of Information Act, the Environmental Information Regulations, information security and records management in a large, complex, preferably local government organisation
- subject matter expertise in the Data Protection field with an in-depth knowledge and understanding of all relevant legislation and its operational implementation
- developing, reviewing, delivering, managing and recommending improvements in policies, procedures, controls, monitoring systems and performance to support effective information governance and data protection
- extensive knowledge of Data Privacy Impact Assessments, development and review of Information Sharing Agreements; information risk and records management
- dealing with the investigation of data breaches or incidents and the recommendation and implementation of mitigating risk factors
We’re particularly interested in people with experience of working in the public sector.
The Mayoral Combined Authority has a hybrid working approach, which enables employees to split their week between working in the workplace and working remotely. Full-time employees are required to work in the office for 1 to 2 days a week and can work from home for the remaining days. This approach aims to maintain a work-life balance while ensuring effective delivery of services.
We offer an excellent benefits package including:
- 26 days annual leave, plus bank holidays, rising to 31 days after 5 years continuous service
- 2 days of paid leave each year to volunteer
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- Flexible, family friendly and hybrid working options
- Reduced bus fare travel across the West of England
The salary for this role is £63,685 - £69,665. This is the full-time equivalent salary, and will be pro-rata for part-time. We advertise salary ranges for job roles, with new appointments for external candidates typically starting at the lowest salary point.
As a founding Member of the West of England Good Employment Charter and accredited Living Wage Employer, we’re committed to creating a diverse environment where all our employees can thrive.
If you have an accessibility need, disability, condition or need any additional support that means you might require changes to the application or recruitment process, please get in touch with our Resourcing Team.
Data Protection Officer and Information Governance Manager employer: West of England Mayoral Combined Authority
The West of England Mayoral Combined Authority is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises collaboration and innovation in the heart of Bath and North East Somerset. Employees benefit from professional growth opportunities, a commitment to public value, and the chance to make a tangible impact on regional development. With a focus on strategic investment and commissioning, this role provides a unique platform for those looking to drive meaningful change in their community.
Contact Details:
West of England Mayoral Combined Authority Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Data Protection Officer and Information Governance Manager
✨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 West of England Mayoral Combined Authority looking for candidates who are engaged and informed.
We think you need these skills to ace Data Protection Officer and Information Governance Manager
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 West of England Mayoral Combined Authority. 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 West of England Mayoral Combined Authority
✨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 West of England Mayoral Combined Authority’s stance on compliance. A shared vision can really resonate with interviewers looking for fit as much as skill!
