Head of Information Governance

The Guinness Partnership; Greater Manchester; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading housing association is seeking a Head of Information Governance to oversee data processing strategies and compliance. The ideal candidate will manage the Information Governance team, ensuring lawful data usage and acting as the Data Protection Officer. Applicants should have proven experience in a large organization, knowledge of relevant legal requirements, and strong communication skills. The position is based in Oldham with a closing date for applications on 24 September 2025.

Qualifications

• Proven experience managing an Information Governance function in a large organisation.
• Excellent knowledge of current Information legal requirements.
• Ability to engage and influence people at all levels.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Information Governance team to promote effective use of data.
• Oversight of data processing strategies and policies.
• Act as the Data Protection Officer and contact with the ICO.

Skills

Managing an Information Governance function

Knowledge of Information legal requirements

Dealing with Data Protection Complaints

Excellent oral and written communications

Microsoft Office proficiency

Project planning and management

Education

Degree level education or equivalent

Qualification in data protection/information rights

Job description

Overview

The Guinness Partnership is a resident-focused, national organisation, providing housing across England. We were established in 1890 to make a positive difference to people’s lives, and today we own and manage nearly 70,000 homes, providing services to nearly 160,000 residents.

We currently have a new opportunity for a Head of Information Governance to join our team in Oldham.

Role and responsibilities

As the Head of Information Governance, you will lead the Information Governance team to promote and develop the lawful and effective use of data and information through Guinness. You will have strategic oversight of the processing of data across Guinness, overseeing the development and implementation of effective strategies, policies and procedures to ensure that data held by Guinness is processed lawfully, fairly and ethically. You will act as the Data Protection Officer for the organisation and be the main point of contact with the Information Commissioner’s Office. You will also have responsibility for overseeing the introduction of the Social Tenants Access to Information Requirements at Guinness.

What we’re looking for

We know that how we do things is just as important as what we do, so you'll not only have experience of managing an Information Governance function within a large organisation, but you'll also be a confident collaborator, with the willingness to go the extra mile to get the job done and bring out the best in team members.

Essential experience

• Proven experience of managing an Information Governance function within a large organisation
• Knowledge of up-to-date Information legal requirements and best practice
• Proven experience of dealing with Data Protection Complaints, Records Management, Individual Rights requests and information security breaches, including liaising with the ICO
• Able to lead, develop, engage and influence people at all levels
• Excellent oral and written communications
• Excellent knowledge of Microsoft Office
• Excellent report writing skills
• Experience of project planning and project management
• Highly developed analytical skills with the ability to communicate complex concepts/legislation to non-technical staff
• Able to identify strategic priorities and respond efficiently to changing business needs

Essential qualifications

• Educated to degree level or equivalent
• Recognised qualification in data protection/information rights

To find out more about the key responsibilities of the role and to ensure you meet the essential criteria, please review the role profile.

Please apply with a CV and covering letter, detailing how you meet the essential criteria detailed on the role profile.

Closing date for applications: 24 September 2025

Interviews to be held in our Oldham office on 8 October 2025

About Us

The Guinness Partnership is one of the leading providers of affordable housing in England. We build and manage homes and provide housing services for nearly 160,000 residents nationwide. Our vision is to deliver great service, provide great homes, to be a great business and to be a great place to work. Because everything we do is about our residents, our communities and our people, any profit we make is re-invested in new and existing homes and improving services.

The Guinness Partnership is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to equality of opportunity for all colleagues, and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.