Client
Local Authority in Newham
Job Title
Senior Information Rights officer (FOI)
Pay Rate
£25.32 an hour PAYE/£31.81 an hour UMBRELLA
Hours
36 Hours a week (Mon-Fri) 9AM-5PM
Duration
Initial 3 month contract
Location
HYBRID WORKING- 2 days a week in Dockside,Newham
Role Overview
This pivotal role ensures the Council meets its statutory duties under information rights legislation, delivering timely, accurate, and lawful responses to Freedom of Information (FOI), Environmental Information Regulations (EIR), Subject Access Requests (SARs), and other disclosure requests. Acting as a trusted expert, the post holder safeguards transparency, compliance, and public trust while championing best practice across the organisation.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead delivery of information rights requests, ensuring all FOI, EIR, SAR, GDPR, and disclosure requests are logged, tracked, and responded to within statutory deadlines.
* Apply expert legislative knowledge to assess complex requests, identify and apply exemptions or exceptions, and produce legally compliant, well‑reasoned responses.
* Collaborate across council services, working closely with information asset owners to source accurate and high‑quality data efficiently.
* Handle sensitive and complex requests, including historic SARs and cases requiring specialist knowledge (e.g. social care).
* Provide authoritative advice and guidance to officers at all levels on information rights obligations, exemptions, and compliance.
* Promote a strong culture of information governance, transparency, and accountability throughout the Council.
* Engage confidently with the public and external agencies, explaining legislation, processes, and progress clearly and professionally.
* Support continuous improvement, contributing to internal reviews, policy development, reporting, KPIs, and assurance for governance boards.
Essential Knowledge & Expertise
* In-depth knowledge of UK GDPR, Data Protection Act 2018, Freedom of Information Act 2000, and Environmental Information Regulations 2004.
* Proven ability to interpret and apply legislation to complex cases, including redaction and preparation of disclosure bundles.
* FOI Practitioner qualification or equivalent practical experience, with substantial hands‑on experience handling SARs and high-risk requests.
Equal Opportunities
The Adecco Group UK & Ireland is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
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