Data Protection Officer

Location: Poole House (Bournemouth - Talbot)

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Data Protection Officer to join our newly formed University Secretariat. This is a unique opportunity to shape and embed a strong culture of data protection, privacy and information governance across a dynamic and evolving organisation. 

The DPO will provide authoritative, strategic advice to senior management and executive committees, playing an important leadership role in ensuring effective governance of personal data across the institution. As part of a newly emerging Secretariat, you will help develop, implement and maintain university-wide data protection policies, procedures, processes, standards and frameworks that support the University’s strategic ambitions and uphold compliance.  

You will bring strong expertise in data protection and information governance, having operated at a senior level within a large/complex organisational setting, preferably with experience in higher education or the public sector. In-depth knowledge and application of data protection legislation, information security standards and ICO guidance is essential. With the support of the Senior Freedom of Information Officer, you will oversee and support the effective handling and processing of subject access requests and provide strategic oversight of the University’s compliance with Freedom of Information Act and Environmental Information Regulations, and related legislation. 

You will be someone with excellent analytical, problem-solving and communication skills with the ability to engage effectively with colleagues across a wide range of seniority. You will be comfortable operating both strategically and operationally in a developing organisational structure. 

In addition to a competitive salary, defined benefit pension scheme and generous annual leave entitlement, this role provides an outstanding development opportunity to shape a new and growing Secretariat function. The wider team works flexibly and supports the University’s hybrid working policy. Details will be provided during the recruitment process.

About the department

The University Secretariat is a newly formed service centralising and bringing together expertise in governance, legal and compliance. The Secretariat currently comprises Corporate Governance, Legal Services, Company Secretarial support and the Information Office and maintains oversight of the University’s compliance with legal and regulatory requirements imposed on it across a range of the University’s activities. As part of this evolving service you will have the opportunity to shape the Information Office and contribute to the development of a broader, strong governance framework to support the University. We work closely with the University Board, the Executive and all Faculties and Professional Services.

About us

Bournemouth University’s vision is worldwide recognition as a leading university for inspiring learning, advancing knowledge and enriching society through the fusion of education, research and practice. Our highly skilled and creative workforce is comprised of individuals drawn from a broad cross section of the globe, who reflect a variety of backgrounds, talents, perspectives and experiences that help to build our global learning community.

BU values and is committed to an inclusive working environment. We seek a diverse community through attracting, developing and retaining staff from different backgrounds to contribute to inspirational learning, advancing knowledge and enriching society. To support and enable our staff to achieve a balance between work and their personal lives, we will also consider proposals for flexible working or job share arrangements.  

A job description for this position is available below. If you require this in a different format, please contact us at hrvacancies@bournemouth.ac.uk. 

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