Data Protection Officer

A DPO's responsibilities can vary depending on the size and complexity of the organisation, but they typically include:

• Implementing and monitoring data protection policies and procedures.
• Raising awareness of data protection issues among staff.  
• Responding to data subject enquiries and complaints.  
• Liaising with the supervisory authority (the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) in the UK).
• Conducting data protection impact assessments (DPIAs).  
• Maintaining records of data processing activities.
• Providing training on data protection.

Under the GDPR, some organisations are required to appoint a DPO. This applies to public authorities and organisations whose core activities involve:  

• Regular and systematic monitoring of individuals on a large scale.
• Processing special categories of data or data relating to criminal convictions and offences.

The ICO also recommends that other organisations, even if not mandatory, appoint a DPO to demonstrate their commitment to data protection.

A DPO should have a strong understanding of data protection regulations and best practices, as well as excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Experience in data management and information security, or related experienced from a previous role would also be beneficial.

QA has a number of cyber security and data trainers with a wealth of real-world experience. QA is proud to have accredited data protection courses from the NCSC, and provide global privacy skills from the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP).

Our training for data protection officers includes two leading certifications; Certified Data Protection Foundation and Certified Data Protection Practitioner.