Information Governance Officer

Somerset Fire; Exeter; Hybrid; GBP 39,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working

Excellent annual leave

Professional development

Wellbeing support

Blue Light Card discounts

Cycle to Work

Job summary

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service is seeking an experienced Information Governance Officer to join the Digital, Data and Technology team in Exeter. The role supports statutory information governance obligations and provides expert guidance on information requests, DPIAs, data protection risks and information security incidents.

The post offers a permanent, full-time contract (37 hours) with hybrid working options and generous leave.

Qualifications

• Experience with data protection and freedom of information (FOI) requirements.
• Ability to interpret legislation and guidance for governance decisions.
• Strong communication and training delivery skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage information requests under GDPR, FOIA and EIR.
• Conduct Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) and assess processing risks.
• Investigate information security incidents and support risk mitigation.
• Deliver training and raise awareness of information governance across the Service.

Skills

Data protection

FOIA

GDPR

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Job description

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service (DSFRS) is looking for an experienced and enthusiastic Information Governance Officer to join our Information and Data Governance team within the Digital, Data and Technology (DDaT) Department.

Salary: £39,481 rising annually to £42,123 (gross) per annum (Grade 6).

Contract: Permanent, Full Time (37 hours per week)

Location: Service Headquarters, Exeter. There would be the possibility of some home working, or working from another Service location on occasion if agreed with the hiring manager.

About us

DSFRS is the largest non-metropolitan Fire and Rescue Service in England, providing prevention, protection, and emergency response services across Devon and Somerset.

We help to create a safer world for our communities by working to prevent fire and rescue emergencies before they happen. We achieve this through the dedication, expertise, and teamwork of our people.

Find out more:

About the role

This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in helping the Service meet its statutory information governance and compliance obligations.

As part of our Information Governance team, you will provide expert advice and support across a range of information governance activities, including managing information requests, assessing data protection risks, investigating security incidents and promoting best practice across the organisation.

This role would suit someone who enjoys problem-solving, working with people, and making informed decisions based on legislation and guidance.

Key responsibilities:

• Manage information requests under GDPR, Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and Environmental Information Regulations (EIR).
• Conduct Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) and assess information processing risks.
• Investigate information security incidents, identify trends, and support risk mitigation.
• Deliver training and awareness of information governance best practice across the Service.

About you

We’re looking for someone with:

• Practical experience and knowledge of data protection and freedom of information
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to follow detailed processes accurately.
• Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines.
• Outstanding communication and customer service skills, with the confidence to support colleagues at all levels.
• A sound understanding of GDPR, Data Protection Act, FOIA, and EIR

Why Join Us?

At DSFRS, you’ll enjoy a rewarding career where your work helps protect the communities across Devon and Somerset.

We also offer:

• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
• Excellent annual leave entitlement
• Family-friendly policies
• Professional development and career progression opportunities
• Free gym access and fitness coaching
• Health and wellbeing support, including physiotherapy and counselling services
• Blue Light Card discounts
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Access to sports, social and charity support networks

What Our People Say

"DFSRS is a gratifying place to work. I've had opportunities to gain qualifications and experience across different areas, and there's a strong culture of cooperation throughout the Service."
Service Desk Technician

"I genuinely feel valued, respected and included. There is a real team ethos, strong leadership, and excellent opportunities for growth and progression."
Information Governance Officer

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, and all employees must share this commitment and adhere to the Services Safeguarding policy.

Fire and Rescue Authority roles are listed in Schedule 1 of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (1974) Exceptions Order and as such it is our policy to require all applicants to disclose any criminal convictions (both spent and unspent) including driving offences and reprimands.

Devon and Somerset Fire Authority are committed to the rehabilitation of offenders, and as such any positive disclosure will incorporate a reasonable and proportionate response.

As a Service and as individuals:

• We are proud to help
• We are honest
• We are respectful
• We are working together

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service recognise and celebrate the vast diversity of the local communities that we serve, and we aspire for this to be reflected in our workforce. We encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds, experience and beliefs, who share our values to consider working for us.