Data Protection Officer (FOI & SAR Lead)

Hybrid working – 2 days per week in the office

Belfast, Cardiff, Darlington, Edinburgh, Nottingham or Salford

We're supporting a public sector organisation seeking an experienced Data Protection Officer / Information Rights professional to lead on Subject Access Requests (SARs), Freedom of Information (FOI) requests and related casework.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone with a strong understanding of UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018 and FOIA, who enjoys managing complex information requests, advising stakeholders and driving compliance across an organisation.

Key responsibilities:
✅ Managing SARs, FOI requests and complaints from receipt to closure
✅ Commissioning and coordinating searches across multiple teams
✅ Reviewing information for relevance and sensitivity, including redaction requirements
✅ Applying exemptions and ensuring statutory deadlines are met
✅ Drafting high-quality responses, disclosure notices and refusal letters
✅ Advising colleagues on information rights obligations and records management best practice
✅ Liaising with government stakeholders and internal teams
✅ Identifying risks, trends and opportunities to improve governance, processes and training

We're looking for someone who has:
✔ Proven experience handling SAR and FOI casework
✔ Strong knowledge of UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018 and FOIA 2000
✔ Excellent written communication and stakeholder management skills
✔ Strong judgement and attention to detail when handling sensitive information
✔ The ability to work independently, manage competing priorities and deliver high-quality outcomes

This role would suit candidates from Data Protection, Information Governance, Information Rights, FOI, Records Management or Compliance backgrounds.