Data Protection, Governance & Compliance Specialist

About Skillnet Ireland

Skillnet Ireland is a government business support agency dedicated to enhancing the competitiveness of Irish enterprises through talent development initiatives. Collaborating with over 57 enterprise groups, Skillnet supports more than 23,000 businesses and over 84,000 workers nationally. The agency is internationally recognized for its excellence by entities such as the European Commission, OECD, and ILO.

Our purpose is to enable organizations and individuals across all sectors and regions to cultivate skills, innovation, and confidence, thereby boosting national competitiveness. We partner with industry, government, and education to deliver enterprise-focused upskilling aligned with Ireland's priorities in digital transformation, sustainability, and inclusive growth, fostering a connected learning environment that encourages lifelong learning and workforce adaptability.

Funded by the National Training Fund via the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Skillnet Ireland is a committed member of the European Pact for Skills, collaborating on EU co-funded projects promoting digital and sustainability skill development in Irish businesses.

Role Overview

The Data Protection, Governance & Compliance Specialist will report to the Head of Risk, Governance & Digital Transformation and is tasked with managing the organization’s data protection framework. This includes leading GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018 compliance measures, enhancing data governance maturity, and ensuring rigorous information management aligned to strategic goals. The role serves as a key advisor across departments, overseeing data lifecycle governance, incident management, regulatory interactions, and acting as a privacy champion.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the statutory Data Protection Officer, monitoring GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018 compliance through audits, risk assessments, policy development, and staff training.
• Manage data incidents and breaches by coordinating investigations, documentation, risk evaluations, and notifying the Data Protection Commission when required.
• Handle Subject Access Requests and other Data Subject Requests promptly and in compliance with regulations.
• Advise the organization on data protection matters, conduct Data Protection Impact Assessments, lead Privacy by Design reviews, and ensure GDPR-aligned procurement contracts and data-sharing agreements.
• Assess and monitor third-party vendors to ensure they meet relevant data protection standards and technical controls.
• Act as the primary liaison with the Data Protection Commission and manage regulatory reporting, including breach notifications and maintaining audit-ready Records of Processing Activities.
• Lead the organization's data governance framework by establishing structures, defining roles, and fostering a culture of responsible data usage and stewardship.
• Supervise governance over the complete data lifecycle ensuring appropriate retention, disposal, classification, metadata management, and data quality.
• Maintain and update policies and standards for information management, collaborating with IT and security teams to align practices with organizational risks and strategic objectives.
• Support compliance with relevant laws and regulations, contribute to enterprise risk management efforts around data risks, provide compliance reporting to leaders, and assist with audits ensuring evidence and corrective actions are properly handled.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Third-level qualification in business, law, public administration, risk management, information systems, or a related field.
• In-depth knowledge of GDPR, Data Protection Act 2018, data governance frameworks; relevant certifications such as CIPP/E, CIPM, CDMP are preferred.
• Proven experience in data protection, compliance, information governance, or risk management including handling data incidents, DPIAs, and regulatory engagements.
• Experience in vendor risk management or procurement governance particularly in public sector or regulated environments with complex data systems.
• Strong analytical, organizational, problem-solving abilities along with excellent communication skills for cross-team collaboration.
• Ability to work independently with sound judgment and discretion.

Application Process

Candidates should apply by submitting a detailed CV and a brief cover letter (up to two pages) highlighting key achievements, skills, motivation, and alignment with the role's requirements. The closing date for applications is 5.00 p.m., Monday, 10th August 2026.

The selection includes shortlisting, an initial interview, a final competency-based interview possibly requiring a written exercise and presentation, followed by comprehensive reference checks. Successful candidates will be offered a competitive package.

Skillnet Ireland supports a hybrid work model where appropriate and is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request during the application process.