Information Governance and Data Protection Officer

Your new company A public sector organisation is recruiting an Information Governance and Data Protection Officer. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in ensuring the organisation's compliance with data protection regulations and fostering a culture of privacy. They will work closely with cross-functional teams to assess, implement, and manage data protection measures and policies. Your new role Serve as the primary contact for data protection and privacy matters. Liaise with regulatory authorities and lead incident response for data breaches. Promote a positive data protection culture and train staff. Advise on UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018 compliance and risks. Conduct data protection audits and maintain records of data processing activities. Assist in managing and securing data across internal systems. Lead systems transformation for data management and secure storage. Implement and assess data sharing agreements with external partners. Conduct and assist with Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs). Review and update data protection policies and provide staff training. Develop relationships with other DPOs to share best practices. Ensure data privacy notices are compliant. Freedom of Information (FOI) and Information Management/Standards Lead and quality assure responses to FOI/SARs requests. Advise on FOI/DP appeals and complex requests. Review and monitor records management and retention schedules. Address control weaknesses identified in information management reviews. Advise on appropriate information security measures. Support periodic governance reporting and risk management updates. Facilitate reviews and updates of the Corporate Risk Register. Assist with updates to the Risk Management Strategy and Corporate Governance Framework. Complete and monitor action plans for various governance checklists. Ensure corporate policies are up to date and compliant What you'll need to succeed Essential A degree in a related specialist discipline or equivalent experience. A minimum of three years: NI Public sector data compliance experience, preferably gained within a regulatory environment. Experience of complex data protection impact assessments. Experience of supporting governance projects to improve records management activities. Demonstrable experience in managing GDPR, FOI, SAR and EIR requests within compliant timescales. Desirable FOI and EIR and GDPR Practitioners Certifications (ISEB/BCS or equivalent), Data Protection Officer certification. Practical knowledge / ability to interpret legislation and comprehend complex decision notices from the ICO and tribunals. What you'll get in return £34,834 per annum Temporary for 6 months with potential to go fixed term contract until 31st March 2026 Hybrid working, 2 days in office, 3 remote Flexible working scheme Belfast city centre location What you need to do now If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career. Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be Skills: Information Governance and Data Protection Officer Temporary £18 per hour Benefits: £18-£20 per hour