Data Protection Lead
Hybrid | London (Camden – 1 day per week) | Temporary Contract
An excellent opportunity for an experienced data protection professional to step into a senior, influential leadership role within a large, complex organisation at a critical time for privacy and regulatory assurance.
We’re partnering with a well‑established, values‑led organisation to recruit a Data Protection Lead to provide subject matter expertise, lead assurance activity, and manage a small specialist team. This role offers significant exposure to senior stakeholders and the chance to shape how data protection is embedded across a diverse group environment.
This is an ideal role for someone who enjoys owning the compliance agenda, leading others, and balancing regulatory rigour with practical business delivery.
The Role
Reporting to the Data Protection Manager, the Data Protection Lead will act as a senior authority on data protection and privacy, supporting the organisation to maintain compliance while enabling its strategic objectives.
You’ll lead the assurance function, manage Data Protection Compliance Officers, and work closely with senior managers, directors and the DPO on complex matters, high‑risk issues and key initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
- Act as a subject matter expert on UK data protection and privacy legislation
- Lead data protection assurance activity across the organisation
- Line manage and support Data Protection Compliance Officers
- Work with senior data protection leadership to develop and deliver a risk‑based compliance programme
- Ensure timely, consistent and high‑quality data protection advice is provided to the business
- Lead on data protection policies, standards, procedures and privacy notices
- Oversee investigation and management of personal data breaches and incidents, including complex or escalated cases
- Ensure appropriate prioritisation, remediation and compliance with regulatory requirements
- Oversee data processing agreements and information sharing arrangements with third parties
- Promote and support the use of Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs)
- Oversee statutory compliance for individual rights requests, including Subject Access Requests
- Deliver and oversee data protection training and awareness across the organisation
- Produce assurance reports and performance updates for senior stakeholders
- Act as a data protection stakeholder on major projects and initiatives
- Deputise for the DPO where required and support regulatory engagement, including ICO matters
About You
Essential:
- Strong, up‑to‑date knowledge of UK GDPR, Data Protection Act 2018 and related privacy legislation
- Demonstrable experience working in a senior data protection or privacy role
- Proven experience leading or managing staff within a data protection or compliance function
- A current and relevant professional data protection qualification
- Excellent communication and influencing skills, including engagement with senior leaders
- Strong analytical capability and sound judgement when applying complex legislation
- Experience drafting and reviewing policies, procedures, guidance and technical reports
- Confident presenter, able to deliver training and briefings to varied audiences
- Ability to work autonomously while collaborating effectively across teams
Desirable:
- Experience working in a regulated or complex organisational environment
- Experience supporting large or multi‑service organisations
Location & Working Pattern
- Hybrid working
- Camden, London base
- On‑site attendance required one day per week
Additional Information
- Role subject to a Basic Criminal Record Check
- Applicants must have the right to work in the UK
Interested?
We are shortlisting now and welcome confidential conversations with experienced data protection leaders looking for a role with genuine responsibility, visibility and influence.
Apply today or contact us for further details
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