Data Governance Officer

The Role:

We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Data Governance Officer to play a key role in supporting the College's commitment to data protection, information governance, transparency, and compliance. Reporting to the Group Director of Data Governance & Compliance, you will help ensure the organisation meets its statutory obligations under UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018, and the Freedom of Information Act.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone with experience in data protection, information governance, compliance, or public sector administration who enjoys working across teams, providing expert guidance, and helping to foster a culture of accountability and best practice.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the administration and coordination of Subject Access Requests (SARs) and other information rights requests.
• Manage and coordinate Freedom of Information (FOI) requests, ensuring compliance with statutory timescales.
• Provide advice and guidance to managers and staff on data protection legislation, compliance requirements, and best practice.
• Support the investigation, management, and reporting of data breaches and information security incidents.
• Maintain data protection records, governance registers, and records of processing activities.
• Assist with Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) and privacy risk assessments.
• Monitor organisational compliance with UK GDPR and related legislation.
• Deliver data protection training and awareness activities across the College.
• Liaise with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) when required.
• Produce management information, compliance reports, and performance data.
• Support audits, reviews, inspections, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues across legal, IT, compliance, and operational teams.
• Provide cover for the Senior Group Complaints Officer during periods of absence.

Who You Are:

You have a strong understanding of data protection legislation, including UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018, and Freedom of Information requirements. You are highly organised, able to manage multiple requests and deadlines, and possess excellent attention to detail when handling sensitive and confidential information. 

You are an effective communicator who can build positive working relationships and confidently provide guidance to colleagues at all levels. With a collaborative approach and a commitment to continuous improvement, you are passionate about promoting compliance, transparency, and good governance. Experience of handling SARs, FOI requests, information governance processes, or compliance-related work would be highly advantageous, alongside a commitment to safeguarding, equality, diversity, and inclusion.

What We Offer:

• Pension: New City College provides a career average pension scheme for all staff (TPS or LGPS)
• Accessibility: All college sites are easily accessible for wheelchair users and via public transport (bus, DLR, or tube).
• On-Site Facilities: Free access to on-site gym facilities at some campuses and on-site cafes serving subsidised food and drinks.
• Staff Development: Five CPD (Continuing Professional Development) days per year, with access to industry-standard facilities and a collaborative working environment. Leading to opportunities for career advancement and professional development in a supportive setting.
• Financial Perks: Interest-free loans for annual travel season tickets. Health cash plan (reimbursement for dental, optical, and therapy treatments) and a completely confidential Employee assistance program.
• Discounts: Save money on day-to-day expenses, shopping, dining out, DIY, and travel.

About New City College:

New City College is proud to be an Ofsted Outstanding college, the largest in England to receive this top rating. With campuses across east London, south-west Essex, and two language schools, we are a sector leader in further education.

Joining NCC means becoming part of a forward-thinking, collaborative team committed to delivering high-quality education and skills that benefit our students and communities. We offer industry-standard facilities, expert staff, and strong partnerships with leading organisations. Our focus on future-ready skills and technology ensures students are well-prepared for higher education or employment, and employers trust us for staff training and development.

Following the merger of seven colleges, NCC has become one of the UK’s most influential FE providers, offering sixth form education, adult learning, apprenticeships, ESOL, EFL and SEND. With a turnover of £130 million, 20,000 students and 1,800 staff, we are a major force in the sector.

We are proud of our inclusive, diverse community and have a zero-tolerance approach to racism and discrimination. As we look ahead, we remain committed to investing in our people and resources to provide an excellent, supportive learning environment that meets the needs of both students and employers.

We are committed to building a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve and actively welcome applications from candidates from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds. This does not prevent any other candidate with or without a protective characteristic from applying for our jobs.

As the College supports a number of children and vulnerable adults, all staff are exempt from Section 4(2) of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Accordingly, all staff will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check, along with a check of the Children’s Barred List if engaged in regulated activity. Any offers of appointment may be withdrawn if these checks prove unsatisfactory. Self-disclosure will be required as part of the recruitment process. Failure to make a full disclosure or to provide sight of your DBS certificate may result in the withdrawal of your offer of employment. The College's DBS policy on the recruitment of ex-offenders is available upon request.