Senior Data Protection Lawyer

This is an exceptional opportunity for a Senior Data Protection Lawyer to join a highly respected legal team with a strong reputation for excellence and forward-thinking practice. The role offers the chance to make a meaningful impact by shaping data protection and AI governance strategies across both UK and international offices.

What you'll do:

As a Senior Data Protection Lawyer, you will play an instrumental role in guiding the organisation through the complexities of modern privacy law. Your day-to-day responsibilities will involve providing strategic counsel on regulatory matters, drafting critical legal documents, developing comprehensive training materials for staff at all levels, and overseeing the implementation of robust policies that safeguard sensitive information.

You will work closely with colleagues from diverse departments to foster a culture of compliance while also championing ethical approaches to artificial intelligence. By monitoring legislative developments worldwide and proactively addressing potential risks, you will help ensure that the organisation not only meets but exceeds its obligations under current laws. Your ability to communicate effectively with senior leaders will be key in driving successful outcomes for both clients and internal teams.

• Provide expert advice on UK GDPR, PECR, and international privacy laws to senior stakeholders across various business units.
• Draft, review, and negotiate data processing agreements as well as privacy provisions within commercial contracts to ensure legal compliance and risk mitigation.
• Develop, implement, and maintain internal data protection policies and training programmes tailored to evolving regulatory requirements.
• Oversee the organisation's AI governance framework by ensuring ethical use of artificial intelligence in line with current legislation.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including IT, HR, marketing, and compliance to integrate privacy considerations into all business processes.
• Monitor emerging AI legislation globally and assess its potential impact on organisational operations and strategy.
• Support incident response activities related to data breaches or privacy concerns by providing clear guidance on best practices.
• Conduct regular audits of data handling practices to identify areas for improvement and ensure ongoing compliance.
• Represent the organisation in discussions with regulators or external partners regarding data protection issues.
• Contribute to thought leadership initiatives by staying abreast of industry trends in data protection and AI governance.

What you bring:

• Qualified solicitor status in England & Wales or equivalent jurisdiction is essential for this position.
• A minimum of 5 years' post-qualification experience focusing specifically on data protection law is required to excel in this role.
• Demonstrable experience in AI governance or regulation of emerging technologies is highly desirable for candidates seeking this opportunity.
• Exceptional legal drafting skills are necessary for preparing complex agreements and policy documents related to privacy matters.
• Strong negotiation abilities are important when engaging with external partners or vendors on contractual terms involving personal data.
• Excellent analytical skills are needed to interpret new legislation and assess its implications for business operations.
• Outstanding communication skills are vital for presenting complex legal concepts clearly to senior stakeholders across different functions.
• A proactive approach combined with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams is expected from applicants.
• Experience developing or delivering training programmes on data protection topics would be advantageous for this position.
• Familiarity with conducting audits or investigations into data handling practices will further strengthen your application.

Robert Walters Operations Limited is an employment business and employment agency and welcomes applications from all candidates