Head of Information Governance and Data Protection Officer (DPO)

NHS; Portsmouth; On-site; GBP 62,000 - 73,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading healthcare provider is seeking a strategic leader in Information Governance to oversee compliance and data protection across two NHS Trusts. This pivotal role involves advising senior leaders, managing a dedicated team, and ensuring adherence to legal obligations while fostering a culture of data security and accountability.

Benefits

Professional development opportunities

Collaborative working environment

Competitive salary

Opportunity to shape governance practices

Qualifications

• Significant experience in a senior Information Governance role.
• Expert knowledge of Information Governance and Management requirements.
• Proven experience in managing DPIAs, Asset Management, FOI requests, and SARs.

Responsibilities

• Advise senior leaders on data protection and information governance.
• Develop and embed the IG Strategy and associated policies.
• Lead on the evaluation of Information Governance processes.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Analytical skills

Data Protection

Governance

Education

First degree

Qualification in Data Protection Legislation

Job description

Job summary

Band: NHS Agenda for Change Band 8b

Hours: Full Time - 37.5 hours per week

Contract Type: Permanent

Location: Across sites, both Isle of Wight NHS Trust and Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust (frequency of visits to each site, to be agreed locally)

Are you a strategic leader with a passion for data protection and information governance? Do you thrive in a dynamic environment where your expertise can make a tangible difference to the delivery of exceptional healthcare?

Main duties of the job

This is a pivotal role within our Single Corporate Service - Isle of Wight NHS Trust and Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust! This role offers a unique chance to lead and shape the information governance landscape across two ambitious and forward-thinking NHS Trusts.

Reporting to the Associate Director of Governance and accountable to the Chief Digital and Governance Officer / Senior Information Risk Owner (SIRO), you will be at the forefront of ensuring both Trusts meet their legal and regulatory obligations, fostering a culture of robust information management and data protection.

About us

Our vision for Single Corporate Services

Isle of Wight NHS Trust (IWT) and Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust (PHU) have a shared vision of a single corporate service across our two organisations, supported by a single set of identical systems and processes, under joint leadership, to drive significant efficiencies, improve employee experience, and return time to patient care.

This vacancy is part of the Single Corporate Services Division.

Why are we changing the way we deliver Corporate Services?

Working as a partnership, both IWT and PHU have a shared vision for excellence in care for our patients and communities; with a set of strategic aims underpinning how we will achieve this. The creation of a single corporate service is essential for us to support our clinical and operational services, and our wider transformation programme.

The single corporate service is delivered across both organisations. You may be based at either IWT or PHU, and individuals may be required to undertake business travel between sites. For leaders managing staff across multi-site locations, you will need to be visible and provide in-person leadership. The arrangements and frequency will be agreed locally.

Details

Date posted: 21 May 2025

Pay scheme: Agenda for change

Band: Band 8b

Salary: £62,215 to £72,293 a year

Contract: Permanent

Working pattern: Full-time

Reference number: REF1480D

Job locations: Queen Alexandra Hospital, Southwick Hill Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO6 3LY

Job description

Job responsibilities

What awaits you:

• Strategic Impact: As our in-house expert, you will directly advise senior leaders, including the SIRO, Caldicott Guardian, Chief Executive, and Trust Board, on all matters relating to data protection and information governance. Your insights will be crucial in ensuring effective decision-making and maintaining our well-led status.
• Leadership and Innovation: You will provide strategic leadership in Information Governance, developing and embedding our IG Strategy and associated policies. This is your chance to drive best practices, champion compliance, and foster a culture of data security and accountability across both Trusts.
• A Dual-Site Challenge with Collaborative Spirit: You'll be instrumental in harmonising information governance practices across the Isle of Wight and Portsmouth, requiring strong collaboration and communication skills. While travel between sites will be necessary, our staff mobility agreement ensures fair and supportive arrangements. For our leaders, visible, in-person leadership across sites will be key, with local agreements to support this.
• Be the Go-To Expert: You will be the primary point of contact for data subjects and the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO), ensuring clear and effective communication channels are in place. Your expertise will be vital in navigating complex legislative requirements and providing guidance across all levels of staff.
• Empower and Develop: Leading the Information Governance function, you will manage and develop a dedicated team, fostering their growth and ensuring the delivery of a high-quality service. You will also hold budget responsibility for the IG function, allowing you to strategically invest in resources.
• Continuous Improvement: You will lead on the ongoing evaluation of our Information Governance processes, develop and undertake audits, and drive forward improvements identified through the Data Security & Protection Toolkit. Your proactive approach will ensure we remain at the forefront of compliance and best practice.
• Influence and Educate: You will develop and deliver training programmes to embed a strong understanding of information governance across the workforce. Your ability to communicate complex information clearly and persuasively will be essential in fostering a culture of compliance.

We are looking for an exceptional individual who possesses:

• Significant experience in a senior Information Governance role.
• Expert knowledge of Information Governance and Management requirements, including GDPR and the UK Data Protection Act.
• Proven experience in managing DPIAs, Asset Management, FOI requests, and SARs.
• Excellent communication, analytical, and interpretation skills.
• Strong leadership and management capabilities, with experience in managing teams.
• A proactive and strategic mindset with the ability to influence at all levels.
• A minimum of a first degree, with a desirable qualification in Data Protection Legislation or equivalent.

In return, we offer:

• A competitive salary within NHS Pay Band 8b.
• The opportunity to shape Information Governance across two significant NHS Trusts.
• A supportive and collaborative working environment.
• Commitment to your professional development and growth.
• The chance to make a real difference to the lives of patients and staff.

Apply now and become a key leader in our Single Corporate Service!