Return to jobs
Contribute to the security of a leading plant science institute as their Data Protection Officer
Overview
Salary
£61337
Location
Kew Gardens, Richmond, UK - Hybrid
Expires
Expires at anytime
Organisation Summary
The Royal Botanic Gardens (RBG Kew), a leading plant science institute and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is dedicated to the understanding and protection of plants and fungi for the future survival of all life forms. They promote their cause via scientific research, collections, international collaborations and public outreach at their gardens in Kew and Wakehurst.
Role Summary
- Provision of senior leadership on data protection matters.
- Execution of statutory functions in accordance with UK data protection laws.
- Management of personal data-related incidents and data subject rights requests.
- Provision of detailed advice and training on legislative requirements to encourage risk-based decisions across the organisation.
Role Requirements
- Expert knowledge of UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018, and other related legislation.
- Experience in records management and information security practices.
- Strong communication skills and the capability to train staff at all levels of the organisation.
Application Process Details
- Application is made through their online portal.
- They have an equality of opportunity policy and encourage applications from all sections of the community.
- First round interviews will take place at Kew on February 11, 2026.
- Secondary interviews, involving technical questions, are scheduled for February 24 or 25, 2026.
RBG Kew is seeking a talented data protection professional to join our team as the Data Protection Officer (DPO). Personal data is central to our strategic and operational decisions, and we are committed to protecting and using this data in a secure and legally compliant manner. With a robust data protection framework already in place, the DPO will monitor compliance, advise on legal obligations, and act as a senior leader for data protection matters. This role is crucial in fostering best practices and ensuring long-term compliance with data protection laws.
The Organisation: The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew is a leading plant science institute and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We aim to understand and protect plants and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of all life on Earth. Our mission is supported by our scientific research, collections, global partnerships, and the public engagement opportunities at our gardens in Kew and Wakehurst.
The Role: As the Data Protection Officer, you will provide senior leadership on data protection matters, execute statutory functions in accordance with UK data protection legislation, and manage personal data-related incidents and data subject rights requests. You will also provide detailed advice and training on legislative requirements to facilitate risk-based decision-making across the organisation.
Job Requirements: Candidates must be subject matter experts in UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018, and other relevant legislation. Experience in records management and information security practices is essential. The ability to train staff and communicate effectively at all levels within the organisation is also required.
Benefits: Kew offers a competitive salary of £61,337 per annum and a comprehensive benefits package that includes continuous learning opportunities, generous annual leave, flexible working arrangements, an Employee Assistance Programme, and other wellbeing supports. Additional perks include a competitive pension, employee discount scheme, and free entry to national museums and galleries, as well as our own gardens.
Application Details: Interested candidates should apply through our online portal. We are dedicated to equality of opportunity and encourage applications from all sections of the community. First round interviews will be held at Kew on February 11, 2026, with second round interviews, including technical questions, scheduled for February 24 or 25, 2026.
