Senior Associate - Data Protection and Cyber Security

DWF Law LLP; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

DWF Law LLP in Manchester is seeking a Senior Associate to join its Data Protection and Cyber Security team. In this role, you will provide advisory services on data protection matters, lead complex projects, and mentor junior team members.

The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of PQE, up-to-date knowledge of UK/EU regulations, and relevant sector experience. We offer a hybrid working arrangement to promote flexibility alongside collaborative opportunities.

Qualifications

• 5+ PQE working in a leading data protection team.
• Up-to-date knowledge in UK/EU data protection law, including GDPR.
• Experience advising on data-protection matters across multiple sectors.

Responsibilities

• Advise clients on UK and EU data protection regulations.
• Develop and implement data protection policies.
• Draft, review, amend and negotiate data-related contracts.

Skills

Data protection law knowledge

Legal drafting skills

Client management

Analytical skills

Leadership and mentoring

Education

Qualified solicitor

Job description

Why join us?

We are recruiting for a Senior Associate to join our Data Protection and Cyber Security team at DWF, an award‑winning global legal business.

DWF’s legal and multi‑disciplinary professional services offering provides clients with comprehensive global support on critical issues in Data Protection and Cyber Security.

In this role, you will advise clients on a broad range of data‑protection matters across multiple sectors, including telecoms, fintech, financial services and retail. You will also provide support and act as the 'go to person' for more junior members in the team.

This role will be based in our Manchester office, with a hybrid working arrangement offering flexibility alongside regular in‑office collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Advise clients across diverse sectors on UK and EU data protection regulations, providing clear, pragmatic and operationally focused guidance.
• Develop and implement data protection policies, manage compliance initiatives, and support the creation of robust privacy frameworks.
• Draft, review, amend and negotiate data‑related contracts, agreements and commercial documentation.
• Lead and oversee complex Data Subject Access Request (DSAR) projects.
• Handle complex data protection matters, including strategic and programmatic data protection work as well as emerging legal issues relating to advanced technologies such as AI.
• Conduct risk assessments for innovative technologies, including profiling, biometrics and AI‑driven systems.
• Support organisations responding to cyberattacks and personal data breaches.
• Maintain strong, trusted relationships with key clients and contribute to business development through both new and existing engagements.

What will help you succeed in this role?

Essential

• Qualified solicitor 5+ PQE, working in a leading data protection team.
• Up‑to‑date knowledge in UK/EU data protection law, including GDPR and related regulatory frameworks.
• Proven experience advising on a broad range of data‑protection matters across multiple sectors.
• Excellent drafting, analysis and communication skills.
• Familiarity with emerging technologies, including AI, digital risk frameworks and associated regulatory challenges.
• Demonstrable experience supervising, mentoring and developing junior lawyers.
• Experience in cyber incident response and data‑breach management.
• Strong commercial awareness, sound judgement and leadership capability.
• Confident, personable and effective in managing stakeholders at all levels.

What we offer?

We are committed to ensuring that each member of our team feels valued and duly rewarded during their time at DWF.

We are an equal opportunities employer that celebrates diversity, and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all. We aim to create a positive experience for all candidates and offer any adjustments or additional support needed. If you're excited about the opportunity but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with all the requirements, please apply anyway. You may be the right candidate for the role or others across the wider team.

About us

DWF is a leading global provider of integrated legal and business services. We empower people to be themselves within an inclusive and supportive environment, enabling everyone to achieve their full potential in line with their abilities and career aspirations.