Data Protection Manager

Job Description Join Us as a Data Protection Manager (Transformation) 12-month FTC Location: Hybrid – 3 days in Milton Keynes (with occasional travel to Leighton Buzzard) + 2 days remote Are you passionate about data protection and excited by the opportunity to drive transformation? At Connells Group, we’re looking for a Data Protection Manager to play a pivotal role in embedding data protection compliance into our strategic change initiatives. You’ll collaborate with cross-functional teams across the Group – including Technology, Security, Legal, Enterprise Risk, HR, and external partners – to identify, manage, and communicate data protection risks clearly and effectively to stakeholders and senior leaders. In addition, you’ll support the operational delivery of our second-line data protection compliance framework, helping to ensure our practices remain robust, forward-thinking, and compliant. For full details on our Benefits, view our brochure. Your responsibilities will include: As our Data Protection Manager (Transformation), you’ll lead the integration of data protection into high-impact transformation programmes across the Group. Act as the data protection lead for transformation initiatives, embedding privacy by design and default. Conduct Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs), attend project meetings, and collaborate with stakeholders to identify and mitigate risks. Oversee due diligence for critical third-party vendors, especially those involved in innovative or high-risk data processing. Review and enhance operational data protection processes across Group Companies. Support the second-line compliance framework, advising on data breaches, individual rights, marketing queries, and ROPA reviews. Provide expert input to senior management, offering clear, practical advice on complex data protection matters. Carry out assurance reviews to identify control gaps and work with business units to implement effective solutions. Deliver regular reports to the Group DPO on data protection progress, risks, and mitigation strategies. We are looking for someone who has: Data Protection experience in a large, diverse, commercial B2C and B2B group At least 5 years’ experience in a second-line Data Protection role. Experience working with in a commercial B2C marketing environment. Experience with new technology, platforms, and software solutions (including arrangements and requirements with third parties). Recognised Data Protection Qualification such as; BCS Practitioner Certificate in Data Protection BCS Practitioner Certificate in Data Protection Practitioner Certificate in Data Protection (PC.dp) CIPP/E Connells Group UK is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, transgender status, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity. Don’t meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that women and people of colour are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At Connells Group we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive and authentic workplace. So, if you’re excited about this role but your experience doesn’t fit perfectly with every aspect of the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other opportunities. CF00716 Job Reference: CF00716