Job Title: Head of Data Protection
Location: Dublin City Centre
Working Model: Hybrid
Abrivia are currently recruiting for a Head of Data Protection to join our client, a global player within the Insurance market.
This is a senior leadership appointment and a key hire within the wider Compliance, Risk and Assurance function. Reporting directly to the Chief Risk Officer, the successful candidate will lead the organisation’s Data Protection and AI Compliance strategy across the business, ensuring strong governance, regulatory compliance and responsible innovation in an evolving regulatory environment.
This role has arisen as part of a planned succession process ahead of retirement, allowing for a structured handover and transition period.
Your Role
- Lead the organisation’s Data Protection and AI Compliance function across Ireland
- Drive the ongoing development and implementation of data protection and AI governance frameworks, policies and controls
- Act as a key advisor to senior leadership, Executive management and Board sub-committees on data privacy, AI regulation and compliance matters
- Oversee regulatory engagement, reporting obligations and compliance monitoring activities
- Lead and develop the Data Protection team, currently consisting of a Data Protection Manager and wider supporting team
- Provide guidance on data incidents, data subject requests and regulatory risk management
- Work closely with business units and senior stakeholders to ensure privacy and AI considerations are embedded across operational and strategic initiatives
- Support the business in navigating the evolving AI regulatory landscape and emerging compliance requirements
- Deliver training and awareness initiatives to promote a strong culture of compliance and accountability
- Contribute to broader Risk and Compliance initiatives as part of a wider team of 20+ professionals
Your Skills
- Minimum 10 years’ experience within a data protection, legal, compliance or related environment
- Previous exposure to the insurance or financial services sector is highly desirable
- Qualified Solicitor or equivalent experience within Data Protection, Compliance or Regulatory functions
- Professional qualification in Data Protection, Compliance or Insurance such as APA, DII or equivalent
- Strong understanding of GDPR, data governance frameworks and regulatory requirements
- Experience working within AI governance, AI compliance or emerging AI regulatory frameworks
- Proven ability to engage with and advise senior leadership teams and Board-level stakeholders
- Strong communication and influencing skills with the ability to provide clear and commercially focused guidance
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving capability with a pragmatic approach to decision-making
- Experience managing teams and operating within a regulated corporate environment
Should this position be of interest to you please call Tadhg at 01 9052560. Applications are in strict confidence.
