JOB SUMMARY

At FCDO Services we protect the UK’s interests at home and overseas. We design and construct secure government buildings and courier diplomatic packages worldwide, safeguard government tech and a whole lot more. Our work is as varied and vital as it gets, but we never lose sight of our people. Their skills, aspirations and growth mean as much as the global mission we’re on. In our world, it all matters.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Working with the FCDO you will be a subject matter expert and provide advice on a broad array of contemporary information rights and data protection challenges. This will include the handling of Information Commissioner’s Office complaints, plus issues relating to Freedom of Information (FOI), GDPR and the Data Protection Act, so you’ll have access to a fascinating cross-section of work with all the sensitivities you would expect in such an environment. Drawing on your judgement and expertise you will give guidance on the nuances of how each situation should be managed. A bespoke approach is required for every case, but with your exceptional knowledge, you’ll see to it that relevant case law and legislation has been translated into accurate guidance. And because our team take a pride in remaining at the cutting edge of knowledge, you’ll see to it that you’re up to date with new and emerging case law, plus any amendments to the relevant legislation.

TAKE ON THE MOST INTERESTING INFORMATION RIGHTS AND DATA PROTECTION CHALLENGES

With a deep knowledge of information rights legislation, you’ll be fluent in the Freedom of Information Act and the Data Protection Act, as well as GDPR. You will need a good knowledge or interest in Central Government, and you’ll hold a practitioner certificate in data protection and information rights or have extensive and credible experience in navigating data privacy laws and regulations.
Your stakeholder management and interpersonal skills will be just as important in this role. We’re looking for someone who can influence colleagues and customers at all levels, and you’ll have the ability to interpret your knowledge for the customer in every situation. You’ll be able to make effective decisions so that we’re always delivering the highest quality of service.

TECHNICAL SKILLS

We’ll assess you against these technical skills during the selection process:

• Exceptional knowledge of information rights legislation (FOIA. DPA/GDPR).
• Extensive experience in data privacy laws and regulations
• Exceptional stakeholder management and communications skills
• The ability to interpret and apply official guidance and case law to inform decisions on cases.

NATIONALITY REQUIREMENTS

Open to UK nationals only.

Responsibilities Include but are not limited too:

• Provision of advice and support to the customer on complex cases.
• Lead adviser on responses for the customer on centralised Internal Reviews and Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) complaints.
• Provide feedback and sharing of best practice on case management in terms of FOIs and Data Protection.
• Subject matter adviser where cases are under appeal to the Information Tribunal.
• Advice and guidance to customer senior stakeholders including Private Offices, SPADs and other senior leaders as required.
• Lead on complex casework working with senior collaborators and engaging directly with the ICO and lawyers acting for the customer.
• Function as the subject matter representative on behalf of the customer on cross-Whitehall liaison issues, including Cabinet Office and ICO Liaison meetings as necessary.
• Point of Contact for Sensitivity Reviewers supporting the work of the customer’s Information Rights Unit.
• Analysis and presentation of Management Information to the Senior Sensitivity Reviewer, Head of SR Service, and senior stakeholders