Data Protection Officer jobs

About Us

The Ark HQ™ is a leading provider of compliance management solutions exclusively for schools. Through our DataProtect™ program, we actively manage data protection compliance for educational institutions, going beyond consultancy to provide comprehensive, hands-on management of schools' data protection requirements.

At The Ark HQ™, we embrace a remote-first approach, providing you with the ultimate flexibility to work from anywhere. This policy is rooted in our trust in our team's ability to excel regardless of physical location, offering a perfect blend of freedom and responsibility.

Compensation

Job Type: Full-time role.

Expected hours: 39 per week.

Salary: DOE.

Role Overview

We seek a dedicated Data Protection Officer to join our team, delivering our DataProtect™ program to schools in Ireland and the UK. This role involves active management of schools' data protection compliance, including assessments, documentation, training delivery, and chairing termly compliance meetings.

Salary: Dependent on Experience

Key Responsibilities

1. Assessment & Action Planning

• Conduct initial data protection assessments.
• Create school-specific action plans.
• Identify compliance gaps.
• Develop implementation timelines.
• Set program priorities.

2. Documentation Management

• Develop and maintain required policies.
• Create privacy notices and statements.
• Document processing activities.
• Maintain compliance records.
• Update documentation as needed.

3. Training Delivery

• Deliver staff awareness training.
• Conduct role-specific training sessions.
• Provide ongoing support.
• Create training materials.
• Track training completion.

4. Compliance Committee Management

• Chair termly compliance meetings.
• Set meeting agendas.
• Document decisions and actions.
• Follow up on action items.
• Maintain committee records.

5. Annual Review & Reporting

• Conduct annual compliance reviews.
• Prepare progress reports.
• Update action plans.
• Review and refresh documentation.
• Plan program improvements.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Relevant third-level qualification.
• Proven data protection experience.
• Understanding of GDPR requirements.
• Experience in compliance management.
• Strong documentation abilities.
• Excellence in training delivery.
• Project management capabilities.

Desired Certifications

• IAPP Certifications (CIPM / CIPT / CIPP/E).
• Related professional qualifications.
• Data protection certifications.
• Compliance management credentials.

Essential Skills

• Strong communication abilities.
• Excellent presentation skills.
• Detail-oriented approach.
• Problem-solving capabilities.
• Project management expertise.
• Stakeholder management experience.
• Training delivery competence.

Knowledge Requirements

• Deep understanding of GDPR (UK & Euro).
• Knowledge of Irish & UK data protection law.
• Familiarity with education sector.
• Understanding of compliance frameworks.
• Awareness of emerging data protection trends.

Working Arrangements

• Remote working model.
• Occasional travel may be required.
• Flexibility for termly meetings in person in Ireland with team.

What Success Looks Like

• Effective program delivery.
• High school satisfaction rates.
• Strong compliance outcomes.
• Positive feedback from stakeholders.
• Timely meeting management.

Benefits

• Remote-First Work Culture: At The Ark HQ™, we embrace a remote-first approach, providing you with the ultimate flexibility to work from anywhere. This policy is rooted in our trust in our team's ability to excel regardless of physical location, offering a perfect blend of freedom and responsibility.
• Generous Annual Leave: We value work-life balance. Enjoy more annual leave per annum, offering you ample time to recharge, travel, or pursue personal projects.
• State-of-the-Art Company Equipment: We provide high-quality company equipment to ensure you are equipped for success. This includes the latest technology and software, ensuring you have all the tools needed for optimum performance and comfort.
• Exceptional Working Environment: Our focus on creating an outstanding working environment is unwavering. Whether in the office or working remotely, we ensure a supportive, inclusive, and dynamic atmosphere that fosters collaboration, creativity, and wellness.
• Flexible and Remote Working Opportunities: Embrace our flexible remote role. We understand the importance of flexibility in modern work-life balance and allow you to work from where you feel most productive and comfortable.

Application Process

Please send your CV and cover letter demonstrating your understanding of:

• School data protection requirements.
• Active compliance management.
• Training and governance.
• Risk assessment and management.

The Ark HQ™ is an equal opportunities employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Note: We are not accepting applications from recruitment agencies for this position.

Benefits:

• Additional leave
• Sick pay
• Work from home

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Application question(s):

• Do you have experience implementing data protection programs?
• Candidates who can show experience in the Education Sector (or related industries such as care homes, hospitals etc.) are particularly desirable - do you have this experience?

Education:

• Bachelor's (required)

Experience:

• Data Protection: 3 years (required)

Work Location: Remote

Reference ID: DPO 0125

Expected start date: 06/02/2025

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From £43,455.25 per year

Benefits:

• Additional leave
• Sick pay
• Work from home

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Application question(s):

• Do you have experience implementing data protection programs?
• Candidates who can show experience in the Education Sector (or related industries such as care homes, hospitals etc.) are particularly desirable - do you have this experience?

Education:

• Bachelor's (required)

Experience:

• Data Protection Officer: 3 years (required)

Work Location: Remote

Reference ID: DP0125
Expected start date: 03/02/2025