The ICO is an independent public body. We uphold information rights in the public interest, promoting openness by public bodies and data privacy for individuals. We educate organisations, promote good practice and oversee legislation that ensures people’s data is secure, accurate and robustly managed. In May 2018 new laws come into force to better protect people’s privacy in the digital age and ensure organisations who handle personal information get it right. That brings significant additional responsibilities for the ICO as the UK’s data protection regulator.
About the role
As Head of Policy and Engagement you will play a leading role in delivering information rights policy and driving the engagement activities which help the public understand their rights and help organisations comply with their responsibilities. Leading a department of over 30 staff, you’ll be tasked with devising clear policies and guidance to heighten awareness and understanding of information rights legislation. Your policy “products” will be key reference points for colleagues and external readers including businesses, public bodies and the third sector. Accuracy, clarity and accessibility are key.
Day-to-day you’ll be taking the lead on policy projects and ensuring they are delivered on time and to a high standard. That will include rising to the challenge of implementation of the new General Data Protection Regulation which will come into effect in the UK in May 2018. You will set clear expectations for your staff and help keep them motivated and equipped to deliver an excellent service. You’ll set appropriate mechanisms that monitor key performance indicators, continuously seek improvement and recommend changes where you see fit.
You’ll make it your mission to be fully conversant with all relevant legislation – giving you the confidence and knowledge to set clear policy guidance, sign complex and precedent setting Freedom of Information decision notices, participate in senior leadership activities and represent the ICO at key meetings and events.
About you
We’re looking for someone who has significant experience in a senior policy role, as part of which they’ll have led and managed people, driven policy and change projects from concept to sign-off and gained public speaking, representational and negotiating experience.
Up-to-date knowledge of Data Protection and Freedom of Information legislation is also important, as is knowledge of the regulatory and political environment and experience of interpreting and applying complex legislation to particular situations.
Effective communication skills – both written and oral – will play an instrumental role in your ability to manage and infleunce your team and key stakeholders. You’ll also need excellent organisational skills with the ability to prioritise and delegate appropriately.
It’s an exciting time to be working in data protection. You’ll be at the heart of an increasingly high-profile policy area which matters to people’s lives. The ICO offers a supportive and flexible working environment and is strongly committed to the learning and development of its staff.