Ofgem
Data Protection Specialist
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Data Protection Specialist
Data Protection Specialist (Deputy Data Protection Officer)
Successfully applicable candidates may be based in our offices in Cardiff, Glasgow, or London. We actively encourage applications from candidates based in Cardiff and Glasgow.
About the Role
Across government, digital and technology transformation is now core to public bodies’ delivery of better services, resilience protection, policy execution, and citizen/business expectations. Ofgem plays a pivotal role in the UK’s energy system, safeguarding consumers while enabling a secure, fair, and sustainable energy future. The newly established Digital, Data and Security Services (DDSS) team is crucial in modernising Ofgem’s operations, bolstering platforms, and aligning with wider governmental priorities.
This transformative action plan within DDSS strengthens foundational structures, internal capabilities, and governance frameworks essential for a modernised regulator. This senior role offers an opportunity to shape the future of Ofgem, driving the organisation’s digital, data protection, security, and technology evolution at an unprecedented moment.
Ofgem seeks a highly proficient Data Protection Specialist (Deputy Data Protection Officer) to safeguard one of the UK’s most sensitive and complex data environments. You will provide expert guidance, ensure compliance, and foster collaboration across Ofgem and external stakeholders. This position requires building a high-performing team, managing risk, and delivering within a dynamic regulatory landscape.
Key Responsibilities
Legal & Advisory
- Provide expert legal advice on data protection compliance with UK GDPR, Data Protection Act 2018, and related legislation.
- Represent Ofgem in handling legal and regulatory consultations, including engagement with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).
- Support submissions to the Cabinet Office and central government.
Data Protection & Compliance Oversight
- Lead and oversee data protection governance, including safeguarding datasets with pricing and market sensitivities.
- Develop and enforce compliance protocols aligned with broader governance and risk frameworks.
Incident & Risk Management
- Manage data breach protocols and public reporting in line with regulatory (ICO) and organisational policies.
- Collaborate with security teams on risk mitigation and escalation strategies.
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Freedom of Information & Subject Access Requests (SARs)
- Oversee legal framework for FOI and SAR responses, ensuring compliance with timelines and statutory obligations.
- Work with FOI teams to achieve accuracy, completeness, and regulatory adherence.
Cross-Organisational Collaboration
- Operate in a matrix management environment across:
- Legal and compliance teams
- Regulatory bodies
- Internal business units
- Delivery projects (ensuring privacy by design).
- Embed rights and responsibilities within governance structures (e.g., cybersecurity, AI, and emerging tech).
Governance & Sign-Off
- Support Deputy Chief Information Security Officer (Deputy CISO) and DPO in statutory and strategic policies, policies, and discuss sign-off.
- Developed and maintained data protection, cybersecurity, and technology frameworks.
Requirements
Essential Criteria
- Sounds led experience in data protection incident protocols (investigation, response, prevention).
- Experienced in documented principles of GDPR, the UK Data Protection Act 2018.
- Experience using Data Loss Prevention (DLP) tools.
- Strong working knowledge of data protection, FOI, and cybersecurity legislation.
- Certified in Data Protection Foundation (GDPR).
- Hold a law degree or equivalent specialist experience.
Desirable Criteria
- Advanced knowledge of cybersecurity regulations.
Roles & Behaviours
We evaluate core competencies during the selection process across:
Key Behaviours
| ✅ Making Effective Decisions | ✅ Working Together | ✅ Delivering at Pace |
Technical Skills & Presentation
A technical analysis days and a 1250-word written case study will form part of the interview. You will be asked to present evidence-based responses, ensuring clarity on compliance, governance, and regulatory risk.
Compensation & Benefits
Salary
£49,452
Pension Plan
Civil Service Defined Benefit (contributions amount: £14,326 p.a.). Pension funding details are outlined [here].
Additional Benefits
- Up to 30 days annual leave, including statutory holidays.
- Flexible working and family-friendly policies.
- Subsidised gym membership (London only).
- Restaurant discount scheme.
- Free civil service pension risk allowance sought.
- Interest-free season ticket loan.
- Access to a comprehensive benefits package.
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Selection Process
- Online job application including: Karriere pathways, qualifications, and a 1250-word personal statement addressing lead and desirable criteria.
- Initial sift of lead criteria may follow automatically for a high-volume vacancy.
- An Final assessment covering:
- Case study-style presentation.
- Behavioural and technical interview stark maturity.
Security Clearance
- SC (Security Check) required.
- Must complete BPSS (Baseline Personnel Security Standard) and undergo standard criminal recording.
Eligibility & Diversity
Civic Service Code
Ofgem aligns with the Civil Service Commission's recruitment guidance (promoting value judgement ethical mould and multidisciplinary). Keen for individuals able to declare sustained independence.
Support Scheme
- Civil Service Redeployment Interview Scheme for at-risk concurs based on essential criteria.
Talent Revelation
Ofgem champions inclusion and diversity. Additional networks:
- Disability Confident Scheme (support available).
- formerly incarcerated individuals guidance.
- Open to veterans.
Diversity & Inclusion Accessibility
The Civil Service is committed to equality and pay equity. Please see Civil Service Diversity Policy for further guidance.
Contact Point
For queries, contact:
- Amber Shankland (Amber.Shankland@ofgem.gov.uk) for applications.
- Ofgem Recruitment (recruitment@ofgem.gov.uk).
Further details on Recruitment Principles: Civil Service Overview
Once finalised, applications are retained for partial legal and internal vetting processes. Falsified AI-generated details may lead to disqualification. Acknowledging the Civil Service Equality Framework, functionalities are open to eligible cohorts. Kind preparing your supporting documents, as closed offers are non-renewable.
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