Data Protection Officer (The Privacy Guardian)

Introduction

Are you a privacy expert with a passion for ensuring that organizations comply with data protection regulations and protect personal data? Do you thrive on managing data protection strategies that balance regulatory compliance with business operations? If you're someone who loves staying ahead of data protection laws while guiding organizations through the complexities of GDPR, HIPAA, and other regulations, then our client has the perfect role for you. We’re looking for a Data Protection Officer (aka The Privacy Guardian) to safeguard our data and ensure that we remain compliant with global privacy standards.

Imagine being the trusted advisor on all things data privacy, responsible for ensuring that personal data is handled securely and in accordance with applicable laws. As the Data Protection Officer at our client, you’ll lead the charge in developing data protection strategies, advising teams on compliance issues, and responding to data subject access requests. This role is not just about regulatory compliance—it’s about embedding a culture of data protection across the entire organization.

Key ResponsibilitiesData Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs):Privacy Audits and Monitoring:Data Subject Access Requests (DSARs):Training and Awareness:Advisory Role on Data Protection Issues:Incident Response and Breach Management:

• Data Protection Strategy and Compliance:
• Develop, implement, and maintain data protection policies, ensuring compliance with data protection laws such as GDPR, CCPA, and HIPAA. You’ll ensure that data handling, processing, and storage practices align with the latest regulatory requirements.
• Conduct Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) for high-risk data processing activities. You’ll identify potential privacy risks and provide recommendations to mitigate them, ensuring compliance and minimizing risk to personal data.
• Perform regular data protection audits to assess the organization’s compliance with internal policies and external regulations. You’ll monitor data processing activities, identifying gaps and advising on corrective actions.
• Manage and respond to data subject access requests, ensuring that individuals’ rights are respected and fulfilled in accordance with data protection regulations. You’ll handle requests related to data access, rectification, and deletion.
• Develop and deliver data protection training programs to educate employees on privacy principles, data handling best practices, and regulatory requirements. You’ll foster a culture of privacy awareness across the organization.
• Serve as the organization’s main point of contact for all data protection matters, advising leadership, legal, and IT teams on compliance issues, regulatory changes, and data breaches. You’ll provide strategic guidance on data protection risks and policies.
• Lead the organization’s response to data breaches and privacy incidents, including notifying regulatory authorities and affected individuals as required by law. You’ll coordinate investigations, remediation efforts, and reporting.
  
  

Required Skills

• Privacy and Data Protection Expertise: In-depth knowledge of global data protection laws and regulations, including GDPR, CCPA, HIPAA, and data privacy best practices. You’re well-versed in privacy frameworks such as ISO 27001 and NIST.
• Risk Management and Compliance: Strong experience in identifying privacy risks, conducting DPIAs, and ensuring compliance with data protection laws. You can balance business needs with legal requirements and guide teams on best practices.
• Legal Acumen: Familiarity with legal frameworks and the ability to interpret data protection laws and apply them to real-world scenarios. You’re comfortable working closely with legal teams and advising on regulatory obligations.
• Communication and Collaboration: Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain complex privacy regulations to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. You build strong relationships across departments to ensure alignment on data protection goals.
• Incident Response Experience: Hands-on experience managing data breaches and privacy incidents, including conducting investigations and reporting to regulators. You remain calm under pressure and are skilled at coordinating rapid responses.
• Attention to Detail and Organization: Meticulous attention to detail, especially when handling data access requests, legal documentation, and regulatory reporting. You’re highly organized and capable of managing multiple compliance projects simultaneously.
• Humor: A great sense of humor, because even in the serious world of data protection, we believe in fostering a work environment that is both productive and enjoyable. If you can navigate complex privacy discussions with a smile, you’re our kind of DPO.
  
  

Educational Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Law, Data Protection, Information Security, or a related field. Equivalent experience with a proven track record in data protection and privacy compliance is also valued.
• Certifications such as Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP), Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM), or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) are highly desirable.
  
  

Experience Requirements

• 5+ years of experience in data protection, privacy law, or compliance, with hands-on experience managing GDPR, CCPA, HIPAA, and other data protection frameworks.
• Proven experience conducting privacy impact assessments, managing data subject requests, and ensuring regulatory compliance across complex environments.
• Experience working with senior leadership, legal, IT, and security teams in high-stakes industries such as finance, healthcare, or technology is a plus.
  
  

Benefits

• Health and Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans with low co-pays and premiums.
• Paid Time Off: Competitive vacation, sick leave, and 20 paid holidays per year.
• Work-Life Balance: Flexible work schedules and telecommuting options.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certification reimbursement, and career advancement programs.
• Wellness Programs: Access to wellness programs, including gym memberships, health screenings, and mental health resources.
• Life and Disability Insurance: Life insurance and short-term/long-term disability coverage.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for personal and professional challenges.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Financial assistance for continuing education and professional development.
• Community Engagement: Opportunities to participate in community service and volunteer activities.
• Recognition Programs: Employee recognition programs to celebrate achievements and milestones.