Senior Information Governance and Schools Data Protection Officer

EAST SUSSEX COUNTY COUNCIL; Lewes; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in Lewes is seeking a dynamic leader to act as the Data Protection Officer for schools. You will drive compliance with data protection laws, lead a team, and deliver audits and training. The ideal candidate will have strong knowledge in data protection legislation and leadership skills, along with experience in managing complex data sharing issues. This strategic role offers the chance to innovate and support children’s services by safeguarding important data.

Benefits

Diverse range of benefits

Apprenticeship opportunities

Remote interview option

Qualifications

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in data protection.
• Proven track record in compliance and governance.
• Ability to build partnerships across diverse teams.

Responsibilities

• Champion data protection across Children's Services and schools.
• Lead a team of information governance officers.
• Conduct audits, assessments, and provide training.

Skills

Expert knowledge of data protection legislation

Strong leadership and communication skills

Experience of Data Protection Impact Assessments

Experience in audits, training, and strategy development

Ability to manage complex challenges

Education

GDPR Practitioner qualification

Job description

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Job Description

Are you ready to champion data protection and shape best practice across Children's Services and schools? We're looking for a dynamic leader to head our traded service, acting as the named Data Protection Officer for over 50 schools and support our Children's Services department.

In this role, you'll be driving compliance in line with legislation; leading our team of information governance officers; delivering audits, risk assessments, and bespoke training; and developing policies and resources – designed to make a difference! Whilst also advising on privacy by design and supporting the resolution of complex data sharing issues.

What we're looking for:

• Expert knowledge of data protection legislation
• Strong leadership and communication skills
• Experience of Data Protection Impact Assessments and Data Sharing Agreements
• Experience in audits, training, and strategy development
• Ability to manage complex challenges and build strong working partnerships
• Desirable: GDPR Practitioner qualification and insight into local government and school operations.

You’ll play a pivotal role in safeguarding data, supporting schools, and driving continuous improvement for the Children's Services department. This is a strategic position with scope to innovate and expand services. Apply now and help us deliver excellence in data protection!

To apply for this role, please follow the 'Apply Now' button above and upload your CV and a Supporting Statement. We will be using your Supporting Statement to shortlist so please be sure to address how you meet all the criteria in the person specification, drawing on any relevant work/life experience, education, or personal interests.

For guidance on how to write an application see our how to apply page.

Please download the Job Description and Person Specification for more information.

Interviews will take place virtually, via MS Teams on Thursday 18 December 2025. If you are unavailable on this date let us know and we may be able to schedule an alternative date to interview you.

Candidates who meet certain criteria are given priority when we shortlist. See our priority status page for details.

We offer a diverse range of benefits to help and support you during your employment. More information can be found on our benefits page.

Vocational Training through Apprenticeships is now available to our staff, ranging from entry level to degree level qualifications. You can talk to the hiring manager and the apprenticeship team about what qualifications would be relevant to you and this job role, and if it is possible to support you in apprenticeship training.

For an informal discussion about this opportunity contact Peter Questier ([e-mail]) to request a MS teams call or phone call.

For a team that supports me, choose East Sussex!

About Us

Additional Information

Your starting salary will be pro rata if the above position is part-time or term-time only.

If you require sponsorship to work in the UK please let the hiring manager know this in your application so we can check eligibility for sponsorship for the role. For further information please go to Work in the UK - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).

If you require any reasonable adjustments, due to disability, to enable you to participate fully in the process please contact the hiring manager on the contact details above.