Data Protection and Information Governance Officer

Of Northampton; Northampton; Hybrid; GBP 20,000 - 28,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in the UK is seeking a part-time professional to support its data protection and information governance team. You will assist in various compliance and governance tasks, providing essential support to policies and procedures. The ideal candidate has an undergraduate degree, relevant experience, and excellent communication skills. This role offers flexibility in work arrangements to best fit individual needs.

Qualifications

• Previous experience responding to freedom of information and data subject access requests.
• Willingness to undertake training and keep professional knowledge up to date.

Responsibilities

• Support the data protection and information governance team.
• Assist in the development and implementation of policies and procedures.
• Work with various teams across the organization.

Skills

Excellent communication

Ability to work under minimal supervision

Ability to meet deadlines

Education

Undergraduate degree

Qualification in a related discipline

Job description

About the Job

Part time, Permanent - 18.5 hours per week

Interview Date: 22 January 2026

You will be an integral part of the University’s data protection and information governance team, supporting its manager on data protection, freedom of information, legal compliance, information governance and records management. You will assist in the development and implementation of the University’s policies, procedures and guidance for this area.

We want you to be able to carry out your work in a way that best supports UON and our students, but also you as an individual. We understand this may vary between different areas of the university as well as from one person to another. With Smarter Working you can work with increased flexibility, if you would like to, which can facilitate greater freedom and autonomy.

About You

You have an undergraduate qualification with previous experience of responding to freedom of information and data subject access requests and are keen to develop expertise in data protection and information governance. You will be willing to undertake training and keep your professional knowledge up to date. You will be an excellent communicator, able to work across the organisation and with members of the public calmly and effectively. You will be comfortable taking on a wide range of tasks to support a small team, and will be able to work to deadlines with minimal supervision.

Qualifications

Essential;

• Undergraduate degree

Desirable;

• Qualification or equivalent experience in a related discipline

Department

The Data Protection and Information Governance team is part of the University’s Governance, Compliance and Risk department, reporting to the Associate Director of GCR. This is a central office with cross-University responsibility for governance, risk management and compliance functions including information governance, data protection, risk management and health and safety.

About Us

At the University of Northampton, we are committed to supporting aspirations, creating opportunities, and delivering meaningful impact. Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and we foster a progressive, inclusive environment where excellence thrives for our students and staff.

Our People

Our staff are our greatest asset. We are dedicated to building an inclusive community that values diversity, promotes wellbeing, and supports personal and professional growth. By developing a first-rate People Strategy, we aim to attract and retain top talent, enhance career progression, and ensure that every colleague feels empowered to achieve their best.

Our Values

• Inclusivity: We celebrate diversity and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to excel.
• Sustainability: We are committed to becoming a net zero carbon institution, taking collective action for the benefit of society and the environment.
• Aspiration: We strive for excellence in all we do, empowering our staff, students, and partners to reach their highest potential.
• Trust: We build relationships based on respect, transparency, and shared goals.

Together, we are creating a future where our community, our work, and our impact truly make a difference.

Right to work

All candidates will be asked to provide proof of eligibility to work in the UK at interview.

Due to the requirements laid out by UK Visas and Immigration regarding Right to Work in the UK, the University can only accept applications from individuals who currently have a status allowing them to work in the UK for this position. Due to this criteria we regret that we are unable to offer sponsorship at this time.

Equality

We welcome applications from individuals from underrepresented groups.

The University of Northampton is committed to providing a vibrant, ethical, and sustainable environment that values equality, diversity, and inclusion. Our commitment ensures an inclusive atmosphere for staff, students, and the public. We manage equality and diversity through key committees and formal policies, extending our responsibility to subsidiary companies and partnerships.

Together @ UON

Our Commitment to Equality and Inclusion

Together @ UON affirms our dedication to creating an environment that celebrates diversity and promotes equality. We aim to foster a space where all can thrive, aligning with our mission to transform lives and inspire change.

Commitments Include

1. Creating an Inclusive Environment: Adopting a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination and ensuring all activities are inclusive.
2. Supporting Students and Staff: Strengthening mental health support, enhancing disability confidence, and ensuring academic and professional support.
3. Tackling Inequalities: Involving students in recruitment, integrating forums for equality data analysis, and supporting networks for protected characteristics.

UON’s Major Commitments

• Disability Confident
• Standalone Pledge
• IHRA Working Definition

For more details, visit: Equality and Diversity at UON