Data Protection Officer

A public sector organisation is seeking to recruit an experienced data protection professional with strong expertise in risk, public sector administration and governance.

This is a full-time, 12-month fixed term contract role. The position requires attendance in the office a minimum of two days per week in Dublin City.

The role is a middle management position, broadly equivalent to an Assistant Principal Officer grade. The postholder will report to the Head of Corporate Affairs and will be responsible for a wide-ranging portfolio across data protection and regulatory governance matters.

Key Responsibilities

• Partner with stakeholders to provide guidance and constructive challenge on projects and new initiatives to manage data risks and regulatory requirements within the HEA.
• Act as a delegate for the Data Protection Officer (DPO) as required.
• Provide advice on Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs).
• Support incident and data breach management activities.
• Manage data subject rights requests.
• Support file management and administration activities.
• Maintain and update the Record of Processing Activities (ROPA).
• Manage the Data Protection mailbox, including business-as-usual queries from internal and external stakeholders.
• Support the development and maintenance of data protection policies and procedures.

Essential Requirements

• A third-level qualification (NFQ Level 8 or above) in a relevant discipline
• Minimum of five years' experience in a data protection role.
• Relevant data protection qualification.
• Excellent understanding of GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018.
• Ability to translate regulatory requirements into practical and clear advice.
• Strong stakeholder management skills.
• Excellent organisational and time management skills.
• Experience identifying, assessing, and advising on data protection and information governance risks.
• Practical and pragmatic approach to problem-solving and delivering outcomes.