Trainee Data Protection Officer (Trainee DPO)

OVERVIEW OF THE ROLE 

The DPO Centre DPO Academy offers a unique opportunity to apply for a role as a Trainee Data Protection Officer (Trainee DPO).

You will gain professional qualifications and the necessary experience to launch a career as a certified data protection professional.

This is a 12-month, full-time, fixed term contract and includes:

• Earn-as-you-learn modular programme
• IAPP industry recognised CIPP/E and CIPM exam fee
• Shadowing period with practical client experience

You must have a passion for data protection and the dedication to complete a rigorous academic programme.

At the end of the programme, successful Trainees could be selected to apply for a Junior DPO role with The DPO Centre’s #ONETEAM.

WHY JOIN THE ACADEMY? 

The DPO Centre DPO Academy offers a comprehensive vocational training programme for a career as a data protection professional, combining academic study with real client exposure. A rewarding and immersive range of academic and practical activities, delivered through a blended approach of online learning, hands-on training and group collaboration.

We also understand the financial burden of professional training, which is why we have created a unique earn-as-you-learn opportunity.

Throughout the programme, Trainee DPOs can connect with experienced professionals from one of the largest teams of Data Protection Officers available.

Data protection is a dynamic and constantly evolving field. Global privacy regulations are developing at a rapid pace, especially with recent advancements in AI and machine learning, which presents exciting opportunities for the next generation of privacy professionals.

A career in data protection is both challenging and rewarding. You’ll be at the forefront of interpreting and implementing complex privacy laws, with the chance to influence data protection practices across various businesses and organisations. In the wider sense, your work could potentially help shape new legislation in the years to come. 

Further details on The DPO Centre and our existing team can be found at www.dpocentre.com.    

THE DPO ACADEMY PROGRAMME:EXPECTATIONS

Our programme has been carefully curated by experienced Data Protection Officers to provide the depth of knowledge and expertise needed to succeed in a commercial environment.

During the 12-month blended learning period, you will be expected to:

• Complete an extensive range of academic assessments and practical activities within set deadlines
• Pass IAPP CIPP/E and CIPM certified information privacy professional exams
• Undertake varied work placements in different areas of the business, which will require you to create a work portfolio to evidence various data protection related tasks, including Privacy Notices, RoPAs, DPIAs, LIAs. This will also include:
  • Supporting the production of reports and briefing notes
  • Supporting the delivery of data protection policies, assessments and documentation
  • Supporting the delivery of data protection training
  • Undertaking additional delegated tasks to support business goals

IDEAL CANDIDATE 

The ideal Trainee DPO candidate is a law/business graduate or a supporting compliance professional wanting to upskill.

We’re looking for individuals with a genuine passion for data protection and an ambition to positively influence industry practices and legislation. You might have an academic or professional background in human rights law or information governance.

Key personal attributes:
• Able to work independently and collaboratively with a team
• Organised, with a strong commercial attitude to time management
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Self-awareness and resilience when dealing with conflict or challenging situations

Key skills:
• Fluent in both written and spoken English
• Basic knowledge of the UK GDPR and Data Protection Act (2018)
• Ability to think logically, analytically and strategically
• Confident with Microsoft Office applications

Desired skills:
• Experience with Scoro or similar time management tools
• Experience working within professional services
• Can use persuasion to direct the best action, not just the simplest

Additional requirements:
• You need to live within commuting distance of Leicester to attend inset days
• You need a safe and secure working space for remote sessions and to complete assignments and coursework
• You must have a personal laptop/computer to access the course material over a secure internet connection