Senior Information Officer

Connect2Hackney; Greater London; On-site; GBP 49,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

London Borough of Hackney is seeking a Senior Information Officer to lead information management, data protection, and the handling of SARs and FOIs within the Commissioning, Business Operations & Insight service.

You will manage a small team, drive innovative information systems (including AI pilots), ensure statutory reporting accuracy, and collaborate with other council departments while upholding equality, safeguarding, and high service standards.

Qualifications

• Extensive background in a senior administrative or information management role.
• Experience processing SARs and FOIs with knowledge of the Data Protection Act and GDPR.
• Strong IT systems skills and analytical thinking.
• Experience leading a small team in a busy environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead Information Requests: supervise and administer SARs and FOI requests, ensuring deadlines.
• Drive Innovation: champion development of information systems and pilot AI tools.
• Champion Data Protection: lead for data protection policies and guidance.
• Manage Data Systems: strategic input, storage, retrieval, and integrity for statutory reporting.
• Team Leadership: line management for up to four Information Officers.
• Collaborate & Report: liaison across Council departments and external partners.

Skills

Information management

Data protection

Leadership

Communication

Tools

Google Workspace

Microsoft Office

Case recording software

Job description

Senior Information Officer

Organisation: London Borough of Hackney

Directorate: Children & Education / Children and Families Service

Location: Hackney, London

Pay Rate: £24.96 - £25.53

Contract Type: Full-Time/Temporary

Make a real difference in the lives of children and families. The London Borough of Hackney is seeking a motivated, conscientious Senior Information Officer to lead our information management and data protection efforts within the Commissioning, Business Operations & Insight service.

In this pivotal role, you will ensure the efficient running of our service by championing robust data security, driving process innovation, and leading a dedicated team. If you thrive in a busy environment and have a strong commitment to public service and equality, we want to hear from you.

What You Will Do

Lead Information Requests: Supervise and administer the processing of highly complex and sensitive Subject Access Requests (SARs) and Freedom of Information (FOI) requests, ensuring strict adherence to statutory deadlines.

Drive Innovation: Champion the development of information systems by researching and piloting new tools, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), to streamline tasks and enhance the customer experience.

Champion Data Protection: Act as the lead for data protection and confidentiality policies, working closely with ICT to ensure data security and providing expert guidance to managers and colleagues.

Manage Data Systems: Take a proactive, strategic approach to managing the input, storage, retrieval, and integrity of critical data required for statutory reporting and service planning.

Team Leadership: Provide high-quality line management, mentoring, and performance management for up to four Information Officers, supporting them to excel in their roles.

Collaborate & Report: Act as a key liaison across Council departments and external partners, delivering clear, accurate reports and facilitating seamless information sharing.

Who We Are Looking For

Experienced Professional: Extensive background in a senior administrative, business support, or information management role, preferably within a Children's Services environment.

Subject Matter Expert: Significant, hands-on experience processing complex SARs and FOIs, backed by expert knowledge of the Data Protection Act and GDPR.

Digital & Analytical Thinker: Advanced proficiency with IT systems (including Google Workspace/Microsoft Office and specialised case recording software) coupled with strong problem-solving skills.

Resilient Leader: Proven ability to lead and mentor a team while successfully managing competing priorities in a highly pressurised environment.

Exceptional Communicator: Outstanding writing and speaking (with ease) to build positive relationships with senior management, external professionals, and families.

Our Commitment to Anti-Racism & Equality

Hackney aspires to be an anti‑racist organisation. We expect all staff to make anti‑racism and anti‑oppressive ways of working a foundation of their practice. The successful candidate will demonstrate a personal and professional commitment to dismantling systemic racism and injustice, actively cultivating an inclusive environment that celebrates cultural, heritage, and religious diversity.

Please note: This role involves working with sensitive data and vulnerable populations. An enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check is required.