At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead information governance for the West Yorkshire Violence Reduction Partnership and ensure compliance with data protection laws.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking Combined Authority committed to inclusivity and diversity.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 28 days annual leave, free travel, and a competitive pension scheme.
- Other info: Work in a modern office just minutes from Leeds Train Station with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in reducing violence through effective data governance and collaboration.
- Qualifications: Experience in data protection and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
We currently have a vacancy for a Principal Information Governance Officer to join our Information Governance Team. As our Principal Information Governance Officer supporting the West Yorkshire Violence Reduction Partnership (VRP), you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the Combined Authority meets its statutory responsibilities under the Data Protection Act 2018, UK GDPR, the Freedom of Information Act 2000 and the Environmental Information Regulations 2004. You will act as the VRP’s specialist lead for information governance, providing expert advice on data sharing with a wide range of external partners and ensuring all arrangements are robust, compliant and fit for purpose.
Working closely with the VRP Director and the Head of Research, Analysis & Evaluation, you will help identify, access and govern data from diverse sources to support the VRP’s Knowledge Hub, problem‑profiling activity and the development, review and delivery of the VRP strategy. As Principal Information Governance Officer, your work will ensure that data is not only rigorously analysed and ethically managed but also used to drive evidence‑based action to reduce violence across West Yorkshire.
Our Offer
- Work your way – From flexible and agile working options, including a generous flexi-time scheme to help you balance your personal life and career.
- Time to recharge – Enjoy 28 days of annual leave (with increases based on length of service), plus all Bank Holidays.
- Free greener travel across West Yorkshire – Cover your commute sustainably with unlimited free bus and rail travel using the MCard (Zones 1–5).
- Secure your future – Benefit from a highly competitive Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Investing in you – Take advantage of fully funded professional development, regular training, and up to 3 paid volunteering days per year.
- Grow with us – Incremental salary progression for most roles and annual cost of living increases.
- Family first – We offer enhanced parental and bereavement leave, plus other family-friendly policies to support you when it matters most.
- Your wellbeing, our priority – Access 24/7 free confidential counselling services and the Headspace app for you and up to 5 family or friends.
- Modern workspace in a prime location – Work in bright, contemporary offices just a 2-minute walk from Leeds Train Station, fully equipped with the latest tech.
The Role
Reporting into the Information Governance Manager & DPO, your key responsibilities will include:
- Support the Information Governance Manager (Data Protection Officer) in delivering a proactive, customer‑focused information governance service, providing expert advice to officers in respect of the Combined Authority’s legal duties and responsibilities under the Data Protection Act 2018 (DPA), the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOI), the Environmental Information Regulations 2004 (EIR), the Transparency Code, Elected Local Policing Body legislation, the law of confidentiality and other related legislation and codes of practice relating to the use of information, personal data and retention of records.
- Develop and maintain positive working relationships within the Combined Authority, West Yorkshire Police, other local authorities, other combined authorities, central government bodies and other organisations as appropriate.
About You
- Knowledge of data protection, freedom of information and transparency, records management matters and related legislation.
- Practical experience of successfully performing in a similar role.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to influence, negotiate and challenge where needed.
- Experience of confidently and professionally conveying information both written and oral in a clear, concise and persuasive style.
- Significant experience of advising autonomously and independently on data protection compliance and significant experience of all the key information governance practice areas.
Further Information
The Combined Authority is passionate about creating an inclusive workplace that promotes and values diversity. We know through experience that different ideas, perspectives and backgrounds create a stronger and more creative work environment that delivers better outcomes. We welcome applications irrespective of people's age, disability, neuro‑divergence, sex, gender identity and gender expression, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation, pregnancy or maternity, or other personal circumstances. We have policies and procedures in place to ensure that all applicants are treated fairly and consistently at every stage of the recruitment process, including the consideration of reasonable adjustments for people who have a disability and/or who are neuro divergent. To find out more about inclusivity at the West Yorkshire Combined Authority please visit our dedicated webpage. Under the Disability Confident Scheme, applicants with a disability are guaranteed an interview, subject to the minimum criteria being met.
Principal Internal Governance Officer in Leeds employer: West Yorkshire Combined Authority
The West Yorkshire Combined Authority is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth. With flexible working options, generous leave policies, and a commitment to continuous development, employees can thrive both personally and professionally while contributing to meaningful initiatives aimed at reducing violence in the community. Located in modern offices just a short walk from Leeds Train Station, the organisation provides a vibrant workspace equipped with the latest technology, making it an attractive place for those seeking impactful and rewarding careers.
Contact Detail:
West Yorkshire Combined Authority Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Internal Governance Officer in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees of the Combined Authority on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the role and the team, plus it shows our genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of data protection laws and governance practices. We want to demonstrate that we’re not just familiar with the basics but can also discuss real-world applications and challenges.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice our responses to common interview questions, especially those around compliance and data sharing. We should be ready to share examples from our past experiences that highlight our skills and problem-solving abilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after the interview! A quick thank-you email reiterating our enthusiasm for the role can leave a lasting impression. Plus, it’s a great way to keep the conversation going!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Internal Governance Officer in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in data protection and information governance. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Principal Information Governance Officer, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant expertise!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since strong communication is key for this role, use your application to demonstrate your ability to convey complex information clearly and persuasively. We love seeing examples of how you've influenced or negotiated in past roles, so share those stories!
Highlight Your Experience:Be sure to detail your practical experience in similar roles, especially around compliance and governance. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so let us know how you’ve successfully navigated challenges 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 to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at West Yorkshire Combined Authority
✨Know Your Legislation
Make sure you brush up on the Data Protection Act 2018, UK GDPR, and the Freedom of Information Act 2000. Being able to discuss these laws confidently will show that you understand the legal framework you'll be working within.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated complex information in the past. Whether it's through written reports or verbal presentations, demonstrating your ability to convey information clearly will be key.
✨Build Relationships
Think about how you've developed positive working relationships in previous roles. Be ready to share specific instances where you've collaborated with external partners or stakeholders, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Abilities
Be prepared to discuss how you've tackled challenges related to data governance or compliance. Highlight your analytical skills and how you've used data to drive decisions, especially in a way that aligns with reducing violence or similar initiatives.
