Data Protection Officer
Reference: APR20260362
Expiry date: 13:13, Thu, 28th May 2026
Location
Peterlee with hybrid working (a minimum of 3 days per week in the office)
Key Responsibilities
* Provide expert advice on data protection obligations and monitor compliance through policies, training, and audits
* Advise on and oversee DPIAs, ensuring privacy risks are identified and mitigated
* Act as the primary contact for the ICO, supporting regulatory engagement and breach management processes and testing
* Oversee data subject rights requests, including DSARs, ensuring timely and compliant responses
* Maintain the Information Asset Register (IAR), ensuring assets are identified, risk assessed, and controlled
* Oversee Records of Processing Activities (RoPA), retention schedules and privacy notices, ensuring transparency and appropriate use of lawful bases, including special category and criminal data where required
* Support third‑party data protection governance, including due diligence and contractual controls
* Provide regular reporting and assurance to senior stakeholders and the Board
About You
* Extensive knowledge of UK GDPR and data protection legislation, with confidence to apply this in a practical business context
* Experience in managing or supporting data protection programmes, ideally within a complex or regulated environment
* Ability to communicate effectively with data subjects, data protection authorities and other controllers and processors across national boundaries and cultures
* Good understanding of privacy and security risk assessments, with the ability to identify and address potential risks
* Comfortable working with information systems, data flows and security practices, with an appreciation of how technology and data protection intersect
* High levels of integrity and professionalism, with the ability to handle sensitive information with discretion
* Well‑developed organisational and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities
* Proactive and self‑aware, willing to challenge where needed and seek out knowledge to continuously improve
* Experience working with regulators or within FCA‑regulated environments would be beneficial, but not essential
Benefits
* Salary: From £45,000 per annum, dependent on experience and specialist knowledge
* Annual Leave: Start with 24 days, increasing to 26 days with service, plus flexibility to buy or sell up to 5 extra days each year and an extra day off to celebrate your birthday
* Pension: Employer contributions of 3%
* Financial Benefits: Free life assurance, a save‑as‑you‑earn scheme, colleague referral scheme (earning £1,000 per referral), and a Benefits App with discounts and cashback at retailers such as Tesco, Asda, Currys, B&Q and Wickes
* Well‑being & Lifestyle Services: Colleague assistance programme, 24/7 GP service, mental health support, physiotherapy, cycle‑to‑work, eyecare vouchers, Health Cash Plan, Dental Plan and Travel Insurance
* Community & Culture: Welcoming community, cultural events, free secure parking and regular visits from vendors
* Motoring Benefits: Colleague vehicle‑leasing schemes, discounted repairs and reduced rates on weekend car and van hires
* Stream: Free financial wellbeing app offering control over pay, savings, financial advice and additional discounts
We’re committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace where everyone can thrive. We actively welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences, identities, and abilities. If you need adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, just let us know. We’re here to support you.
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