Data Protection Specialist

Data Protection Specialist (Full-Time, Hybrid - Cork)

On behalf of my client I'm seeking a proactive Data Protection Specialist with strong hands-on experience in DPIAs and a solid risk mindset. The role involves working closely with stakeholders to understand complex processes, identify data protection risks, and support effective mitigations in a fast-changing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and support Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs), including in-depth process interrogation, risk identification, and mitigation planning.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to understand new or changing processes, data flows, and system implementations, ensuring compliant and secure handling of personal data.
• Provide practical data protection advice across business units, helping teams understand obligations and embed best practices.
• Contribute to risk assessments related to data protection and information governance.
• Support change initiatives and help manage data protection risks arising from organisational transformation.
• Assist in refining and improving internal data protection processes and systems to enhance efficiency and compliance.
• Maintain awareness of regulatory changes and industry trends, supporting continuous improvement of the organisation’s data protection posture.

Required Skills & Experience

• Demonstrable experience conducting DPIAs end-to-end, with the ability to:
• Analyse and challenge business processes
• Identify data risks and assess their impact
• Recommend and validate practical mitigations
• Engage confidently with stakeholders of varying seniority
• Strong working knowledge of data protection principles and regulatory requirements
• Experience in risk management, particularly relating to data handling, information security, or operational change.
• Excellent analytical skills, with the ability to understand complex workflows and data interactions.
• Proven ability to thrive in environments undergoing significant change; experience in change management is highly desirable.
• Effective communication and stakeholder-management capabilities.