Compliance Officer - Data Protection & Freedom of Information

City of London; London; Hybrid; GBP 47,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority is looking for a Compliance Officer to oversee data protection and freedom of information compliance. You will provide expert advice, manage audits, and ensure timely responses to statutory requests. The role requires a strong knowledge of UK data protection law and excellent communication skills. Generous salary and hybrid work model offered.

Benefits

Competitive salary

28 days annual leave plus public holidays

Employee volunteering programme

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of UK data protection and freedom of information law.
• Experience advising on complex FOI and data protection matters.
• Experience within a local authority or similar public sector setting.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert guidance on DPA, FOIA, and EIRs.
• Lead corporate data protection audits and training programmes.
• Oversee statutory requests and ensure timely responses.

Skills

Knowledge of UK data protection law

Excellent communication skills

Experience in compliance and audits

Education

ISEB/BCS Certification in Data Protection

Job description

Job Title: Compliance Officer - Data Protection & Freedom of Information

Posting Start Date: 12/08/2025

The job requirements are detailed below. Where applicable the skills, qualifications and memberships required have also been included. Workplace role categories describe our approach to workplace attendance

Salary: £47,620 - £53,310 per annum inclusive of all allowancesContractual Hours: hours per week
Basis: Full-Time, PermanentWorkplace category: Hybrid
Attachments: Job Information Pack

Compliance Officer - Data Protection & Freedom of Information

Help Shape Compliance Across a Historic and High-Profile Organisation

We are seeking a detail-oriented and knowledgeable Compliance Officer - Data Protection & Freedom of Information to join the City of London Corporation's Information Compliance Team. In this vital role, you will lead on compliance with the Data Protection Act 2018 (DPA), the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOIA), the Environmental Information Regulations (EIRs), and related legislation.

You will act as a subject matter expert, provide high-level advice to departments and Members, manage compliance programmes, and oversee complex casework. This role is key to minimising legal risk and maintaining the highest standards of transparency and information governance.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide expert guidance on DPA, FOIA, EIRs, and related compliance legislation
• Lead and manage corporate data protection audits and training programmes
• Oversee statutory requests and ensure responses meet regulatory deadlines
• Draft and review policies, procedures, and training content
• Represent the City of London in regulatory matters, including engagement with the Information Commissioner's Office
• Maintain and update the FOI Publication Scheme and other compliance documentation
• Deputise for the Compliance Manager when required

About You

We're looking for someone who has:

• A strong knowledge of UK data protection and freedom of information law
• A relevant qualification, such as ISEB/BCS Certification in Data Protection or Information Governance
• Experience advising on complex FOI and data protection matters in a public-facing environment
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex legislation to a wide range of stakeholders
• Experience leading audits, developing compliance policies, and delivering training
• Confidence working independently and collaboratively across a large organisation
• Experience within a local authority or similar public sector setting would be beneficial.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and generous pension (Local Government Pension Scheme)
• 28 days annual leave plus public holidays
• Flexible hybrid working arrangements
• Access to staff benefits and discounts
• Employee volunteering programme
• A strong commitment to inclusion, learning, and development

Ready to lead on key compliance matters across the Square Mile?

Apply now to help ensure the City of London Corporation continues to uphold the highest standards in data protection and transparency.

Provisional Interview date: 9th or 10 September 2025

Closing date: Noon on Tuesday 26th August 2025

To apply online please click the Apply online button below.

Alternatively, please contact 020 7332 3978 (24 hr answerphone) quoting reference number OCOM765 if you experience any difficulties. A minicom service for the hearing impaired is available on 020 7332 3732.

The City of London Corporation is committed to Equal Opportunities and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.

We reserve the right to close the advert earlier should we receive a high number of applications.

Because our roles are so varied, we don't have a 'one size fits all' policy for workplace attendance. How many days a week you'll be required to attend your workplace will depend on the requirements of your role. It's important that you understand the requirements before applying to ensure you are able to meet them. We are committed to considering requests to work flexibly and job share. Requests will be considered by the recruiting manager in line with our policies and business needs.

For more information on our categories for workplace attendance, please view our guide here.

We will be reviewing this policy and approach at regular intervals to ensure we're meeting our attendance needs.