Data privacy Specialist Review

I work within the Data Privacy Team and I am responsible for processing marketing suppression requests and managing the data protection mailbox. This involves responding to any data related queries or requests via email. I process customer Data Subject Erasure Requests (DSER's) as well as both customer and employee Data Subject Access Requests (DSAR's), working within the timeframe and guidelines set by the GDPR.

Attending the webinars has allowed me to work with new people and develop my communication skills. I actively listen to others and show respect when we are discussing topics. This has been beneficial to my role as I work remotely, so attend all meetings virtually. My written skills including spelling, punctuation and grammar have also improved as I have been required to complete multiple pieces of coursework. This has been beneficial when I am communicating with customers and employees via email and letter.

I enjoy attending the webinars as this gives me the opportunity to meet new people and discuss the relevant learning outcomes. The programme allows me to learn new and develop existing skills which are relevant to my role, outside of my day to day tasks. I enjoy being able to plan my own time and prioritise my workload around my coursework and revision. Although work is always busy, if we experience a quieter period, it is nice to have my programme to concentrate on.

The programme is very well structured and I have received all of my learning materials prior to the start of the course. The Hub allows you to easily see what learning outcomes you should be focusing on and when the webinars are due. I like that the Hub provides practice questions at the end of each section.

My employer allows me the required time to complete my coursework and revision. I am allowed to work flexibly to ensure that I can attend all webinars and I am given time off if I have an exam to attend. My employer also encourages me to get involved in meetings about any new processes that are being developed, which is extremely beneficial when it comes to completing my coursework. My employer is also happy to provide written evidence in support of my coursework.

My training provider can be contacted at any time via email if I need additional support or have any questions and I always receive a speedy response. During our monthly catch up sessions I am always asked what support or guidance I need. My training provider has shown me where to find practice exam questions prior to my exams which has been really useful.

Working towards my qualification has strengthened my knowledge of the GDPR, which has given me more confidence when dealing with customers. The textbooks that I have received are a great source of information and I have often referred back to them when dealing with customer queries. Attending and working through the course also shows my employer that I am committed to continuing to develop and enhance my skillset.

My Team is based in a different location to me, which means that I am invited to attend social events. These events are usually organised around a team meeting / briefing and is a great way to mix with the team in a formal setting, before enjoying a more relaxed and informal social event.

Yes

I have worked for The AA for 6 years and have been able to change roles within that time as I have been given many opportunities to develop my career. My managers and team leaders have always encouraged me to take on new challenges and want to see their employees do well. I feel like a valued member of staff and have always been treated fairly.

Make sure you have an understanding of the role before applying and ask any relevant questions to ensure your understanding. Be honest in your application. If you know anybody within the company ask about their experiences and why they enjoy working for the company. Be willing to work flexibly and take on any new challenges.