Data Protection Officer (DPO)

Data Protection Officer (DPO)

Location: Dorset (Hybrid)

Rate: -350 (A Day)

Duration: 3 months (initially)

Working Pattern: 3-4 Days

Key Responsibilities

Act as the organisation''s designated Data Protection Officer, maintaining independence and reporting on compliance to senior leadership

Lead and oversee compliance with UK GDPR, Data Protection Act 2018, FOIA, and EIR

Provide expert, pragmatic advice on data protection, privacy, information security, and records management

Manage data protection incidents and personal data breaches, including ICO engagement where required

Oversee subject access requests and complex data protection queries

Lead and advise on Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs)

Embed data protection by design across strategic initiatives, including digital transformation and system change

Contribute to governance forums and support ethical and responsible use of data and emerging technologies (including AI)

Support and oversee freedom of information compliance alongside specialist colleagues

Develop and deliver training and awareness to promote a strong data protection culture

Essential Experience

Significant experience operating as a Data Protection Officer or senior data protection specialist within a large or complex organisation

In-depth, practical knowledge of UK GDPR, data protection legislation, and ICO guidance

Proven experience advising senior leaders and managing regulatory risk

Experience handling data breaches, incident management, and statutory deadlines

Strong stakeholder engagement, communication, and influencing skills

Ability to work independently while collaborating across academic, professional, and technical teams

Desirable

Experience in Higher Education, Further Education, or the public sector

Professional or postgraduate qualification in data protection, information governance, legal, or related discipline

Experience overseeing FOI/EIR compliance

Experience supporting transformation, digital change, or complex system environments