Head of Data Protection


Company:	Government Recruitment Service
Salary:	£57,511 - £68,328
Hours:	Full-time
Location:	Birmingham
Job type:	Permanent
Posting date:	17 Aug 2026
Closing date:	31 Aug 2026

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Summary

The Digital, Data and Technology (DDaT) directorate develops and operates tools and services to support us in this mission. The team have been nominated four times in a row for ‘Best Public Sector Employer’ at the Women in Tech awards and won the award in 2025!

About the role

As Head of Data Protection, you will lead the department's operational data protection risk assessment function, ensuring personal data is handled lawfully, securely and responsibly while enabling the effective delivery of departmental priorities.

This is a strategic leadership role, responsible for shaping the department's approach to privacy risk, data protection compliance and information governance. You will lead a small specialist team, provide expert advice on complex and high-risk issues, and work closely with senior stakeholders across Digital, Knowledge and Information Management, Legal and business areas to enable innovation, digital transformation and the responsible use of data, including emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence.

You will:

Lead the department's operational data protection function, providing strategic direction and oversight of privacy and compliance activities.

Manage and develop a small specialist team, creating a collaborative, inclusive and high-performing culture.

Act as the senior adviser on data protection matters, providing expert guidance on complex, high-risk or sensitive issues.

Oversee the department's data protection compliance, including Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs), data sharing arrangements, and supporting responses to data breaches.

Identify, assess and manage data protection risks, ensuring proportionate controls are in place to support business delivery and compliance obligations.

Develop and maintain data protection policies, standards, guidance and governance processes, ensuring alignment with legislative and regulatory requirements

Build strong relationships with senior stakeholders across DBT, influencing decision-making through practical, risk-based advice.

Support the responsible adoption of digital services, data-driven initiatives and emerging technologies, ensuring privacy considerations are embedded from the outset.

Represent DBT across cross-government data protection, information governance and assurance communities, promoting best practice and continuous improvement.

Drive organisational capability by increasing awareness and understanding of data protection responsibilities across the department.

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