Senior Policy Officer – Scottish & Northern Irish Affairs

About the role

The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) is seeking a Senior Policy Officer to lead its work on Scottish and Northern Irish affairs. You will act as the ICO’s voice in both jurisdictions, engaging with government, parliament and key public‑sector stakeholders on data protection, AI, biometrics and children’s privacy.

Key responsibilities

• Represent the ICO in meetings with senior officials, parliamentary committees and external partners across Scotland and Northern Ireland.
• Provide expert advice on compliance with data protection legislation and influence policy development.
• Support legislative consultations, horizon scanning and parliamentary monitoring.
• Shape ICO guidance, products and cross‑UK regulatory projects.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure ICO objectives are met regionally.

Required profile

• Proven experience in public policy, data protection or related regulatory environments.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce clear policy advice.
• Strong stakeholder‑management capabilities at senior level.
• Interest in emerging privacy issues such as AI and biometrics.

Required skills

• Policy analysis and development.
• Effective public speaking and presentation.

What we offer

• Hybrid working with flexibility between Edinburgh or Belfast office and home.
• Competitive salary £44,297‑£49,813 per annum.
• Generous holiday entitlement and flexi‑leave options.
• Pension scheme, health cash plan and online discount programmes.
• Clear pay progression and extensive development opportunities.