Data Protection Officer

Data Protection Officers are responsible for keeping the data held by organisations about individuals safe and secure.

You will work as part of an information governance team to, inform and advise on data protection obligations.

You will provide advice to your organisation regarding compliance to data protection legislation and act as a contact point with the Information Commissioners Office (ICO). You will ensure that the Information Governance frameworks are implemented company wide, and standards for best practice. You will have an in-depth knowledge of Data Protection Law to be able to advise your organisation accordingly.

Data Protection Officer is also known as Privacy Officer.

Role Characteristics

Develop policies, procedures and guidance around Information Governance
Ensure that staff are compliant with all Information Governance policies
Review and report any serious breaches of data to senior staff
Provide support and guidance with regards to Information Governance
Create reports and presentations for senior staff
Monitor annual data security awareness training

Skills

Attention to detail
Customer service
Organisation
Problem-solving
Using data
Written communication

Routes into this role

Here are some example routes that can lead into this role.

Volunteering or work experience

GCSEs

BTEC

T-Level

A-Levels

An apprenticeship

Undergraduate degree

Postgraduate degree

How to become

There are many routes into becoming a Data Protection Officer; these include university or apprenticeships.

You will normally need 5 GCSEs including English, maths and sciences, or equivalent. You will normally need either A-Levels, BTEC or T-Levels depending on your preference in learning. However, volunteering and work experience is valued by employers.

It is important to check your preferred course provider's entry requirements for guidance.

Where can this role lead

No matter what role you start in or where you are in your career path, there are always opportunities to develop and progress in health and care.

With further experience, you could become a Data Protection Manager, in charge of a larger team with more responsibility. You could also work in Human Resources, Project Management or Business Management.