DWF

Senior Associate – Data Protection and Cyber Security

DWF

full-time

Posted on:

Location Type: Hybrid

Location: Manchester • United Kingdom

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Job Level

Senior

About the role

  • Advise clients across diverse sectors on UK and EU data protection regulations, providing clear, pragmatic and operationally focused guidance.
  • Develop and implement data protection policies, manage compliance initiatives, and support the creation of robust privacy frameworks.
  • Draft, review, amend and negotiate data‑related contracts, agreements and commercial documentation.
  • Lead and oversee complex Data Subject Access Request (DSAR) projects.
  • Handle complex data protection matters, including strategic and programmatic data protection work as well as emerging legal issues relating to advanced technologies such as AI.
  • Conduct risk assessments for innovative technologies, including profiling, biometrics and AI‑driven systems.
  • Support organisations responding to cyberattacks and personal data breaches.
  • Maintain strong, trusted relationships with key clients and contribute to business development through both new and existing engagements.

Requirements

  • Qualified solicitor 5+ PQE, working in a leading data protection team.
  • Up‑to‑date knowledge in UK/EU data protection law, including GDPR and related regulatory frameworks.
  • Proven experience advising on a broad range of data‑protection matters across multiple sectors.
  • Excellent drafting, analysis and communication skills.
  • Familiarity with emerging technologies, including AI, digital risk frameworks and associated regulatory challenges.
  • Demonstrable experience supervising, mentoring and developing junior lawyers.
  • Experience in cyber incident response and data‑breach management.
  • Strong commercial awareness, sound judgement and leadership capability.
  • Confident, personable and effective in managing stakeholders at all levels.
Benefits
  • We are committed to ensuring that each member of our team feels valued and duly rewarded during their time at DWF.
  • We are an equal opportunities employer that celebrates diversity, and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all.
  • We aim to create a positive experience for all candidates and offer any adjustments or additional support needed.
Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills & Tools
data protection policiescompliance initiativesdata-related contractsData Subject Access Request (DSAR)risk assessmentscyber incident responsedata-breach managementGDPRdata protection lawemerging technologies
Soft Skills
communication skillsdrafting skillsanalytical skillsleadership capabilitymentoringbusiness developmentstakeholder managementcommercial awarenesssound judgementpersonable
Certifications
qualified solicitorPQE 5+