Data Protection Officer (DPO)

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Benefits package

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 in Polokwane, Limpopo, is seeking a Data Protection Officer to lead privacy compliance for a digital transformation program. This hybrid role combines in-office collaboration with remote flexibility and requires a strategic, advisory data protection leader.

You will advise on POPIA obligations, monitor compliance, supervise DPIAs, handle data subject requests, and liaise with authorities. A Bachelor's in Law or Information Management (Master's a plus) and 5+ years in data protection

Qualifications

• 5+ years in data protection, privacy, or compliance roles.
• In-depth POPIA knowledge and DPIA experience.
• Strong advisory and communication skills.
• IT and security principles relevant to data protection.
• Professional certifications in data protection are desirable.

Responsibilities

• Advise on data protection obligations under POPIA and other laws.
• Monitor compliance with data protection policies and procedures.
• Provide guidance on DPIAs and monitor their performance.
• Act as the contact for supervisory authorities and data subjects.
• Develop and deliver data protection training programs.
• Maintain records of data processing activities.
• Stay updated on developments in data protection law.
• Collaborate with IT and security to ensure privacy by design.
• Handle data subject requests and complaints.

Skills

Data privacy

DPIA experience

Data subject rights

POPIA knowledge

IT security basics

Policy advisory

Public sector experience

CIPP/E CIPM

Education

Bachelor's degree in Law/Info Management/Cybersecurity

Master's degree (advantage)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a progressive public sector entity focused on digital transformation initiatives within Polokwane, Limpopo , is seeking an expert Data Protection Officer (DPO) to ensure compliance with data privacy laws and regulations. This hybrid role requires a strategic leader who can champion data privacy best practices across the organization, balancing in-office collaboration with remote flexibility. The DPO will be responsible for advising on data protection obligations, monitoring compliance, and acting as the primary point of contact for data protection authorities and individuals whose data is processed.

Key Responsibilities

• Advise the organization on its data protection obligations under relevant laws (e.g., POPIA).
• Monitor compliance with data protection policies, procedures, and relevant legislation.
• Provide guidance on Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) and monitor their performance.
• Act as the point of contact for supervisory authorities and for data subjects regarding data processing activities.
• Develop and deliver data protection training programs to staff.
• Maintain records of data processing activities.
• Stay abreast of all developments in data protection law and practice.
• Collaborate with IT and security teams to ensure data protection by design and by default.
• Handle data subject requests and complaints effectively.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Law, Information Management, Cybersecurity, or a related field; a Master's degree is a plus.
• Proven experience (5+ years) in data protection, privacy, or compliance roles.
• In-depth knowledge of data protection laws and practices, particularly POPIA.
• Experience conducting DPIAs and managing data subject rights requests.
• Strong understanding of IT and security principles relevant to data protection.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and advisory skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage complex projects.
• Experience working within a regulated industry or public sector is advantageous.
• Professional certification in data protection (e.g., CIPP/E, CIPM) is highly desirable.

Benefits

This role offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package, and professional development opportunities within a dynamic public sector organization. The hybrid work model supports a healthy work-life balance, combining in-office engagement in Polokwane with the convenience of remote work. You will be at the forefront of ensuring ethical and legal data handling practices.