Privacy by Design Lead — Data Governance (Public Sector)

Government Digital Service; West of England; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

The Government Digital Service (GDS) is the digital centre of government, advancing a modern, data-driven public sector. The Data Governance Lead (Data Protection) will shape privacy controls and DPIAs for GOV.UK platforms, lead a governance team, and collaborate with senior colleagues to balance risk with delivering trusted digital services at scale across the UK.

Join a fast-paced, high-impact environment where privacy-by-design guides product development, compliance is embedded, and

Qualifications

• Required privacy qualifications like IAPP CIPP/E or CIPM, or BCS ISEB, or equivalent experience.
• Experience leading data protection teams to enable strategic objectives.
• Ability to deliver at pace, meet challenging deadlines.
• Strong communication, presentation and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of new and emerging technologies including AI and their public-sector impact.
• Experience in risk management balancing operational, technical and commercial needs.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Data Governance team and contribute to the governance leadership group.
• Design and implement privacy controls and DPIAs for GOV.UK products and data processing.
• Develop privacy notices and Records of Processing Activities for new projects.
• Deliver DP/Privacy training and raise awareness across GDS staff.
• Maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including ICO.
• Support heads of data governance to manage risks and strategic objectives.
• Oversee workload prioritisation to align with team priorities and deadlines.
• Provide expert guidance on processing of AI-related data within governance bounds.

Skills

Data governance leadership

Data protection

Stakeholder management

Policy compliance

Education

IAPP (CIPP/E or CIPM)

BCS (ISEB) certification

Job description

The Government Digital Service (GDS) is the digital centre of government, advancing a modern, data-driven public sector. The Data Governance Lead (Data Protection) will shape privacy controls and DPIAs for GOV.UK platforms, lead a governance team, and collaborate with senior colleagues to balance risk with delivering trusted digital services at scale across the UK.

Join a fast-paced, high-impact environment where privacy-by-design guides product development, compliance is embedded, and