Data Protection Manager
Location: Bristol (Hybrid working available)
A leading UK commercial law firm is seeking a proactive and experienced Data Protection Manager to join its Risk Team. This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in managing and developing data protection compliance in a dynamic, forward-thinking environment.
The firm is very highly-regarded. It is recognised for its growth, its work-life balance and career progression. This is a new role to join a risk team of 15.
The firm supports over 2,000 organisations across key sectors including health, housing, local government, higher education, energy, and financial services. With over a decade of consecutive revenue and profit growth and consistent recognition in top legal directories, it is known for delivering expert advice with a strong focus on client relationships, professional responsibility, and long-term results.
Role Overview:
The successful candidate will take day-to-day ownership of data protection compliance, working independently while receiving support from senior team members where needed. This is a hands-on role requiring strategic oversight, strong attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate across departments. The role reports into the Head of Risk who is the Data Protection Officer.
Key Responsibilities:
* Carrying out data protection impact assessments and advising on business-wide data use
* Managing and responding to data breaches, including investigation, mitigation and reporting
* Leading responses to subject access and other data subject rights requests
* Overseeing records of processing and ensuring data is managed in line with internal policies
* Drafting responses to data protection-related client questionnaires and tenders
* Providing guidance to internal teams including HR, marketing, tech transformation, and information security
* Advising on international data transfers, FOIA requests, and data clauses in contracts
* Supporting change projects with data protection considerations
* Maintaining and improving data protection policies, procedures and training
* Contributing to audits, enterprise risk reviews, and identifying opportunities for technology-driven process improvements
Ideal Candidate Profile:
* Demonstrable experience in data protection, preferably in a professional services setting
* Strong understanding of data protection legislation and data governance
* Relevant industry certifications (desirable)
* Excellent communication skills and the ability to apply legal and regulatory standards with precision
* Capable of managing workload independently, prioritising tasks and delivering high-quality work
* Detail-oriented with a methodical and proactive approach
Culture and Benefits:
The firm offers a supportive, collaborative culture where people genuinely make time for one another. It invests in long-term career development and provides flexible working arrangements, making it an ideal environment for individuals who value autonomy, trust, and meaningful impact.