Information Rights Lead | FOI & Data Protection

Animal and Plant Health Agency; Newcastle upon Tyne; Hybrid; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Civil Service Pension

Flexible working

25 days annual leave

Learning & development

Employee discounts

Job summary

Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) is seeking a knowledgeable Information Rights Team Leader to lead its Information Rights service, manage requests under FOI, EIR, and the Data Protection Act, and promote openness and continuous improvement across the organisation.

You will provide expert advice, oversee complex casework, maintain policies, and develop staff in a supportive, inclusive environment within the Defra group.

Qualifications

• Experience in an information rights service within a public sector organisation.
• Experience providing line and functional management support.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Able to analyse and summarise complex information, including legal material.
• Strong organisational skills, with experience prioritising workloads.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop APHA’s Information Rights service, ensuring it operates effectively and delivers to a high standard.
• Provide expert advice on information rights legislation, supporting colleagues and senior stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance, managing requests in line with statutory deadlines and regulatory expectations.
• Oversee complex casework, including internal reviews, ICO investigations, and tribunal contributions.
• Maintain and develop policies and guidance, reflecting current legislation and best practice.
• Manage APHA’s publication scheme, ensuring timely and accurate publication of responses.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Information rights

Policy development

Analytical thinking

Organisation

Tools

eCase system

Job description

Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) is seeking a knowledgeable Information Rights Team Leader to lead its Information Rights service, manage requests under FOI, EIR, and the Data Protection Act, and promote openness and continuous improvement across the organisation.

You will provide expert advice, oversee complex casework, maintain policies, and develop staff in a supportive, inclusive environment within the Defra group.