Data Protection Manager

Overview

Are you passionate about safeguarding personal data and ensuring organisations uphold the highest standards of information governance? Social Security Scotland’s Data Protection and Information Governance team is looking for a dedicated Data Protection Manager to play a vital role in maintaining public trust and ensuring compliance across our organisation.

Based in Dundee or Glasgow, you will be part of a collaborative team committed to high standards and continuous professional development. This is an exciting opportunity to influence data protection practices and support organisational excellence in a fast-paced, impactful setting.

As a key member of our Data Protection and Information Governance team within the Data Office, you will lead on complex and sensitive issues related to data protection and governance. Your leadership will support our commitment to responsible data handling, risk management, and compliance, helping shape the organisation’s approach to data protection by design. You will also contribute to organisational learning and improvement by representing our interests in various forums and fostering a culture of best practice.

Experience & Expertise
:
Demonstrable experience in completing DPIAs and managing data sharing agreements. Skilled in raising and discussing information risks, making informed recommendations, and influencing actions to mitigate risks.

Leadership & Communication
: A confident leader who has line management experience and the ability to lead others, handle challenge, and navigate differing views while ensuring data protection requirements are understood and upheld.

Analytical & Influential
:
Competent in analysing information risks and communicating complex issues clearly to stakeholders at all levels, including senior management.

Data Protection Governance & Risk Management

• Lead the implementation and delivery of our data protection by design principles and data sharing strategies.
• Oversee the production, maintenance, and review of Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs), ensuring they are comprehensive and up-to-date.
• Manage the creation, review, and maintenance of data sharing agreements with external partners such as DWP and HMRC.
• Ensure oversight of the data protection governance workload and backlog, aligning priority tasks with organisational objectives to effectively manage resources and mitigate risks.
• Provide expert advice on complex data protection issues across Social Security Scotland, particularly to senior staff.
• Support the development of policies and best practices in data protection and information governance.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders across the organisation.
• Advise on data protection and information risk, escalating issues to the Data Protection Officer and senior leadership as appropriate.
• Support external data sharing requests received from other departments, working closely with the wider Data Services branch.
• Ensure contractual arrangements with suppliers meet data protection standards and requirements.

• Line manage at least two Senior Data Protection Practitioners, providing guidance, support, and professional development opportunities.
• Lead on issues of particular complexity and sensitivity, using your knowledge and experience to build team capability.
• Work collaboratively with the Data Protection Officer and other managers to set objectives, monitor progress, and drive continuous improvement based on risk assessments, breach reports, and assurance findings.

You must have, or be willing to work towards, an approved accreditation such as the British Computer Society Data Protection Practitioner Certificate or relevant equivalent.

• Proven experience in leading or supporting the completion of Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) and managing data sharing agreements with external partners. Ability to oversee their production, maintenance, and review processes to ensure compliance and mitigate risks.
• Demonstrable experience in building and maintaining…