Head of Data Protection

Are you able to resolve complex compliance problems through the correct application of legislation? Are you a professional manager and an excellent communicator? If so, the role of “Head of Data Protection/Data Protection Officer (DPO)” could be ideal.

In this role, you will hold professional accountability for the university’s approach to data protection, shaping the strategy, planning, policies, processes and improvement initiatives of the University. You will manage and develop a team of specialists and provide oversight of Data Protection, Records Management, Freedom of Information and e-privacy regulation arrangements.

What can you expect to get involved in?

• Development and implementation of a monitoring framework consisting of policies, procedures, processes, guidance and metrics to ensure compliance with data protection law and regulation using a risk-based approach that aligns with relevant quality standards
• Providing expert, accurate advice and guidance to senior management, staff, students, suppliers and other relevant stakeholders to ensure compliance
• Leading training and awareness across the University and develop appropriate management information to report on compliance
• Overseeing the effective handling and processing of complaints, queries and information requests from Data Subjects and oversee the effective processing of Freedom of Information or Environmental Information Requests

What will you bring to this role?

• A postgraduate or professional qualification in a relevant area, for example, Data Protection practitioner, legal qualification
• Extensive knowledge and application of the relevant data protection legislation, information security standards and ICO guidance
• Knowledge of data sharing agreements, privacy, consent and data management including trans- border data flows
• Experience of successfully managing staff, with well-developed leadership skills and a clear passion for developing motivated staff and strong teams

What we can offer in return

As a member of our team, you can expect a friendly, open and collaborative working environment and support in your development and wellbeing. You'll enjoy a range of great staff benefits including:

• hybrid working options allowing a flexible blend of office and home working (to be agreed in line with business needs)
• 43 days' leave per year (personal leave, bank holidays and additional days allocated for the Christmas period, pro rata for part-time staff)
• excellent pension scheme with generous employer contributions
• on campus cinema/theatre, sports facilities, library, nursery (Canterbury) and food outlets
• study while you work discounts, cycle to work scheme, local business discounts
• on-site parking

If this role sounds like a good fit for you, we would welcome your application.

The University of Kent is a distinctive and attractive place to work. We employ over 6,000 staff, including academic and research staff and a full range of support and administration staff. Our stunning main campus in Canterbury, Kent was founded in 1965 and is set among green and tranquil open space overlooking the spectacular Cathedral. Our staff enjoy competitive salaries, an occupational pension scheme, generous holiday entitlements and a great working environment.

Please see the links below to view the full job description and also to apply for this post. If you require further information regarding the application process please contact centralservicesresourcing@kent.ac.uk quoting ref number: CSF-650-23