Data Protection Specialist

Essex County Council (ECC) are delighted to be advertising a Data Protection Specialist on behalf of Tendring District Council. To apply for this position, please click here. Data Protection Specialist (12 Months Fixed Term) Town Hall, Station Rd, Clacton-on-Sea CO15 1SE Closing Date: 23/07/2026 Data Protection Specialist (12 Months Fixed Term) Apply online The job requirements are detailed below. Where applicable the skills, qualifications and memberships required for this job have also been included. Job details Salary: £35,412 - £46,142 per annum Grade 7 - 9 SCP 24 - 35 Contractual hours: 37 Basis: Full Time Package: Flexible working arrangements Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme Generous leave entitlement Free parking Discounted Corporate Gym Membership Job description Tendring District Council is seeking an experienced and motivated Data Protection Specialist to support the Data Protection Officer in leading the Council’s approach to data protection, information governance and compliance. This is a senior specialist role with responsibility for ensuring the Council meets its statutory duties under data protection and information legislation. You will play a vital role in supporting the Council’s digital services, projects and partnerships by ensuring data is handled lawfully, securely and transparently. Key responsibilities You will: You will provide expertise on UK GDPR, Data Protection Act and Freedom of Information legislation Ensure the Council meets its statutory duties relating to: Freedom of Information requests Subject Access Requests Environmental Information Regulations Lead on complex data protection matters and information sharing agreements Monitor compliance and manage responses to data breaches Work closely with senior leaders, councillors and external partners to provide guidance and assurance Liaise with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) as required Represent the Council at local, regional and national forums Support in the management and development of a small team and support wider staff training in information governance About you We are looking for a confident professional who can lead and influence across a complex organisation. Essential experience and skills Strong working knowledge of: UK GDPR Data Protection Act 2018 Freedom of Information and Environmental Information Regulations Experience of applying information governance legislation in a local authority or similar setting Ability to provide clear advice on complex legal and governance issues Experience managing or supervising staff and supporting development Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal Strong analytical and problem-solving ability Qualifications Data Protection practitioner qualification (or working towards) Freedom of Information qualification or willingness to obtain Good general education, including English and Maths What we offer Career grade progression from Grade 7 to Grade 9 , linked to experience and development Opportunity to operate at a strategic level and influence organisational governance Involvement in key digital transformation and service improvement programmes Support for ongoing professional development Although this is an initial fixed term role it may lead to a permanent role for the right candidate with an opportunity for a leading role during the Local Government Re-Organisation (LGR) transition period. Flexible working and part-time availability can be explored Why join us This is an exciting opportunity to take a lead role in shaping how the Council manages and protects its data in an increasingly digital and regulated environment. You will work at the centre of governance, risk and information assurance, helping to protect residents, support services and ensure trust in public sector data handling. Please click here to apply, applications submitted via the Working for Essex website will not be accepted.