Lead Policy Officer - Technology
Information Commissioner's Office - Stockport
Stockport
Location
Wilmslow, Cheshire. We may be able to offer some flexibility on location
About us
As an independent body serving the public, the work of the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) is interesting and immensely rewarding. We uphold information rights in the public interest, promoting openness by public bodies and data privacy for individuals.
In the last year we have been involved with prominent issues ranging from addressing the use of intrusive technology in our personal lives, to the privacy implications of the management of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our work has never been so important or high profile.
The ICO’s Technology and Innovation departments deal with some of the most complex privacy, data rights, data protection and emerging technology issues that society faces. The aim of the group is to make sure the ICO can assess and respond to these developments, and most importantly, to shape the future privacy, data and technology landscape.
We have vacancies for several positions across the directorate– roles that will help us shape how emerging technologies and information practices impact the lives of the UK public. For more information, please look at our recruitment website: hays.co.uk/jobs/ico
About the role
As a Lead Policy Officer, you will be responsible for supporting the senior managers in the directorate in engagement with internal and external stakeholders across the Technology and Innovation arena. This will involve maintaining accurate records of stakeholder meetings, monitoring the team’s progress in achieving engagement aims, and handling policy enquiries received by the team.
You will draft a wide range of documents – including; papers for meetings, briefings for senior management and consultation responses.
You will also need to stay informed about new technology and how they affect data protection and privacy issues, proactively developing legislative expertise. Keeping abreast of national and international developments when working closely with other teams across the office to develop and communicate ICO policy.
On occasion, you will also represent the ICO alongside senior colleagues at selected national and international events.
About you
You will have excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and be a good negotiator, able to manage engagement with external and internal stakeholders at a senior level. You will be able to draft accurate policy advice and to represent the ICO confidently and independently at external events and meetings. You will have, or be able to develop, an excellent understanding of the data protection legislation, with an interest in new technologies and the privacy issues they present to consumers. You will work closely with other teams across the office to develop up to date and influential ICO policy.
At least 2 years’ graduate-level work experience, preferably with some experience of data protection or associated legislation.
How to Apply
To learn more about us and find out how to apply, please view our dedicated microsite: hays.co.uk/jobs/ico
The ICO is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion in employment and we welcome applications from all members of the community. We would particularly like to encourage applications from women and from people who are from an ethnic minority background, who are currently under-represented at a senior level within our organisation.
