Data Protection Lead

Data Protection Lead

Full-Time 60000 - 80000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
Wood

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead data protection initiatives and support compliance with global privacy regulations.
  • Company: Join Wood, a global leader in engineering and consultancy.
  • Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Other info: Be part of a diverse workforce committed to solving critical global challenges.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on data privacy while working in a dynamic team.
  • Qualifications: Degree educated with knowledge of data privacy laws and strong organisational skills.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.

Wood is currently recruiting a Data Protection & Privacy Lead, responsible, on behalf of the Group Data Protection Officer (DPO), for the maintenance of Wood’s Data Privacy and Protection programme, which is intended to align the business with global data privacy and data protection regulations and industry best practices. The Privacy Lead is also responsible for generally supporting ongoing activities of the Privacy Team in particular:

  • Doing incident investigations and reports and assisting the DPO on more serious investigations.
  • Assisting with mapping activities, privacy assessments and advice to Wood’s businesses.
  • Working with the DPO to deliver training and awareness activities including co-ordinating the Data Protection Ambassadors’ Network.

As part of the Privacy Team you will be a part of a team working to achieve a global privacy culture where data privacy compliance is recognised and embedded. This role can be based in any Wood office throughout the UK, with hybrid working.

Key Responsibilities

  • Support the DPO to achieve Wood’s privacy strategy.
  • Carry out investigations on more minor incidents and support the DPO on investigations of more complex privacy incidents.
  • Support and assist implementation of new privacy laws and ongoing privacy programmes globally including co-ordinating and reporting on implementation project activities.
  • Advise business areas and functions on privacy matters.
  • Co-ordinate the Data Protection Ambassadors’ Network including ensuring regular communications are provided.
  • Support the DPO ensuring proper contribution of top quality updates, papers, presentations and reports to Business Ethics Forum, Executive Leadership Team and other Wood groups and boards.
  • Monitor the Privacy mailbox and ensure requests are properly forwarded or dealt with promptly.
  • Maintain the Privacy page in a high-quality state, up-to-date, free from errors and all links work and liaise with Communications to ensure any changes are made.
  • Take responsibility for the Privacy Yammer page and other communications channels and, through engagement with Privacy team members and others, maintain a regular flow of communications including notifications of events and other useful, appropriate material and grow the member list.
  • Alongside the Data Protection and Privacy Lead, work with business functions, to issue and complete privacy and Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs).
  • Carry out data incident investigations and reports and assist the DPO on more serious investigations.
  • Maintain the Risk Register, Incident Register and other privacy records keeping them up-to-date, ensuring input is good quality and all matters are monitored and completed in time, notifying DPO of timely completion and quality issues.

Qualifications

  • Educated to degree level.
  • Knowledge of data privacy laws including the Data Protection Act 2018 and General Data Protection Regulation.
  • Prior experience managing cross functional projects/programmes.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Project, PowerPoint, Excel and accustomed to self-teaching on other IT systems.
  • Strong organisational skills and able to convince people to meet deadlines and contribute high quality, relevant materials.
  • Familiarity with OneTrust privacy systems (or similar systems).
  • Previous experience with HR and Technology departments will be considered a plus.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, by handling multiple priorities.
  • Experience in change management environments and successful stakeholder engagement.

Personal attributes:

  • Solutions focused, able to resolve problems.
  • Self-motivated, resilient team player who can motivate others and proactively move tasks forward.
  • Flexible thinker who can adapt as required.
  • Strong communicator, both written and verbal.
  • Good attention to detail whilst maintaining an appreciation of the broader picture.
  • Ability to self-direct own work tasks and meet agreed deadlines.

Company Overview

Wood is a global leader in engineering and consultancy across energy and the built environment, helping to unlock solutions to some of the world’s most critical challenges. We provide consulting, projects and operations solutions in more than 60 countries, employing around 40,000 people. www.woodplc.com

Diversity Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer that recognises the value of a diverse workforce. All suitably qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment on the basis of objective criteria and without regard to the following (which is a non-exhaustive list): race, colour, age, religion, gender, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or other characteristics in accordance with the relevant governing laws.

Data Protection Lead employer: Wood

Wood is an exceptional employer that champions diversity and fosters a supportive work culture, making it an ideal place for aspiring legal professionals. With a strong commitment to professional development, employees benefit from competitive salaries, flexible benefits, and opportunities for growth in the dynamic energy sector. The hybrid work model in vibrant locations like Aberdeen or Reading further enhances work-life balance, allowing you to thrive both personally and professionally.

Wood

Contact Details:

Wood Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Data Protection Lead

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 Wood looking for candidates who are engaged and informed.

We think you need these skills to ace Data Protection Lead

Knowledge of data privacy laws
Data Protection Act 2018
General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
Project Management
Proficient with Microsoft Project
Proficient with PowerPoint
Proficient with Excel

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 Wood. 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 Wood

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 Wood’s stance on compliance. A shared vision can really resonate with interviewers looking for fit as much as skill!