Senior Information Governance Officer

Permanent
Full time 37 hours per week

Shape the Future of Information Governance

Are you ready to take the lead on complex and high-profile information governance matters? Devon County Council is seeking a Senior Information Governance Officer to join our Legal and Democratic Services Directorate. This is a fantastic opportunity to influence policy, guide best practice, and ensure compliance with key legislation that protects people's rights and promotes transparency.

Why choose Devon County Council?

At Devon County Council, we believe work should work for you. Here's what makes us stand out:

• Flexible working: Hybrid options, flexitime, and compressed hours to suit your lifestyle.
• Generous annual leave: Starting at 25 days plus bank holidays, with extra leave for long service.
• Excellent pension scheme: Secure your future with one of the best public sector pension schemes.
• Continuous development: Access to training, qualifications, and career progression opportunities.
• Employee wellbeing: Mental health support, staff networks, and wellbeing initiatives.
• Discounts and perks: From local leisure facilities to national retailers, plus cycle-to-work schemes.
• A role with purpose: Every day, your work will help protect people's rights and support communities across Devon.

About the Role

As a Senior Information Governance Officer, you will:

• Act as the lead officer for complex and high-risk cases under Data Protection, Freedom of Information (FOI), and Environmental Information Regulations (EIR) legislation.
• Provide specialist advice, guidance, and training across the Council.
• Manage complex and/or contentious Subject Access Requests, police disclosures, and information sharing agreements.
• Investigate information security incidents and support compliance with UK GDPR and Data Protection legislation.
• Support services with Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) and information asset mapping.
• Mentor and provide quality assurance for junior team members, contributing to their development.
• Influence policy development and contribute to the Council's strategic information governance objectives.

What We're Looking For

• In-depth knowledge of Data Protection, Freedom of Information, Environmental Information Regulations, and UK GDPR.
• Experience of managing complex caseloads and providing compliance advice.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with senior officers, partners, and members of the public.
• The ability to deliver training and promote best practice across the organisation.
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
• A collaborative team player with strong leadership qualities.

Ready to Lead?

If you're looking for a role that combines responsibility, flexibility, and purpose, apply today and join a team that values your expertise and invests in your future.

Interview Date: 13 November 2026

For further information and an informal conversation please contact Hannah Halford on 01392 381 571 or Martin Lawrence on 01392 383 792.

How to apply

Please ensure when completing your application form that you provide a supporting statement which demonstrates how you meet the essential and desirable criteria as described in the person specification of the job description. Applications may not be taken forwards if the supporting statement is not adequately completed.

Internal Applicants, please note: If you are an existing DCC employee, please use your iTrent Employee Self Service (ESS) details to log in and apply.

Please click here to see the Job Description

• DCC embraces the positive benefits of a diverse workforce and is committed to providing an environment that is inclusive and safe. We welcome applications from people who share our commitment to stop discrimination, challenge inequality and promote diversity across Devon. More information can be found on our Equality and Diversity webpages.
• For details on the use of AI in applications and Devon County Council’s use of AI in Recruitment please see Use of AI in Our Recruitment Processes - Working for Devon | Devon County Council
• Happy to Talk Flexible Working - The Council offers flexible working arrangements in terms of when and where people work e.g. hybrid working, part-time, condensed hours etc.
• We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
• This role requires the ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence and fluency in English.
• Personal data we collect from you will be processed in accordance with the Applicant privacy notice.
• For more information about Working for Devon please visit our Working for Devon page.
• We cannot consider visa sponsorship at this time. UK Right to Work is required. For further guidance on right to work in the UK, please visit: Work in the UK - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).
• This role requires a DBS disclosure.