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