Data Protection Officer

This is a contract until 30/10/2026, working in a digital-focused environment, with a competitive day rate in the £500 umbrella range. The role is based in one of several UK hubs - Belfast, Cardiff, Darlington, Edinburgh, Nottingham or Salford - on a hybrid model (2 days per week in the office). The opportunity Act as the central coordinator for Subject Access Requests (SARs), Freedom of Information (FOI) requests and complaints. Log, triage and track cases end-to-end, ensuring statutory deadlines are met and any extensions or exemptions are applied appropriately and defensibly. Commission searches and input from different directorates, setting clear instructions, deadlines and quality expectations, and chasing/escalating where needed. Review material for relevance and sensitivity, coordinate redactions in line with UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018 and FOIA, and maintain a robust audit trail. Draft clear, accurate responses (including refusal or partial disclosure notices), ensuring the right sign-offs and a consistent professional tone. Provide practical advice and guidance to colleagues on information rights, records handling and effective searches. Liaise with internal and external stakeholders, including central government departments where required. Identify recurring risks and themes and help to improve processes, templates and training. Support wider knowledge and information management activities as needed. What our client is looking for Proven experience handling information rights casework - especially SARs and FOI requests - including commissioning searches, applying exemptions and drafting high‑quality responses. Strong working knowledge of UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018, plus a practical understanding of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 and statutory timescales. Ability to work as a self‑starter, managing competing priorities and driving cases through to completion in a fast‑paced environment. Excellent judgement and attention to detail, with the ability to handle sensitive information and maintain accurate records and audit trails. Strong stakeholder management skills and the confidence to influence, challenge constructively and communicate clearly at all levels. SC clearance (or the ability to obtain it) will be required. Why this could appeal to you Rare chance to work on a high‑impact public sector assignment . Hybrid working with a choice of several UK locations. Scope to shape processes and best practice around FOI, SARs and wider data protection. Engage with a wide variety of stakeholders while remaining hands‑on with complex casework