Job Description

At Thorntons Law, every moment matters. Join our Data Protection Team and you'll feel inspired. You'll feel connected. You'll feel like you belong. And it all begins from the moment you join us.

That's because we've created a different kind of law firm. Here, you'll build relationships with clients and colleagues that really last. You'll help shape what happens now, and what comes next. And we'll support and encourage you to be the best you can be.

This is what life at Thorntons is all about. And this is your moment to be part of it.

About the role

Be the expert clients rely on.

As the data protection landscape continues to evolve, clients are looking for expert guidance they can trust. At Thorntons, our dedicated Data Protection team is at the forefront--helping organisations across diverse sectors navigate privacy law with confidence.

In this role, you'll be a valued member of our specialist team, working directly within a leading Scottish law firm that's known for its pragmatic, commercially focused approach. Based in Glasgow or Edinburgh, you'll act as an outsourced Data Protection Officer (DPO) for a fantastic range of clients--building lasting relationships and delivering real impact.

Providing expert guidance - Guiding clients on all aspects of data protection, privacy law, and compliance, including GDPR, data breaches, and subject rights. Building trusted partnerships - Acting as the main point of contact for your assigned DPO clients, managing day-to-day compliance matters with confidence and minimal supervision. Driving best practice - Conducting gap analyses, creating and delivering corrective action plans, and drafting policies, procedures, and data processing agreements. Educating and empowering - Delivering tailored training for clients and supporting the wider team's development. Collaboration with other experts - Working closely with our commercial, IT, and risk specialists to provide joined-up, business-focused advice. Contributing to growth - Playing an active role in business development through webinars, cross-team collaboration, and thought leadership.
What you'll need

We're looking for:

Ideally, a degree in Law, Information Security, or Risk Management, or equivalent professional experience. A recognised data protection qualification such as CIPM or CIPP/E, or comparable experience (around 4 years) in a senior data protection, privacy, or information security role. Proven expertise in data protection law and GDPR compliance, with the ability to translate complex regulation into practical, commercial advice. Excellent relationship management skills - confident with clients at all levels, including C-suite stakeholders. A calm, pragmatic approach and the ability to manage competing demands while maintaining a high standard of service. A collaborative mindset - you'll thrive in a firm where legal, technical, and commercial expertise meet to deliver great client outcomes.
Why Thorntons

This is a rare opportunity to shape your career at the intersection of law and business--as part of a respected law firm where your advice makes a real difference. You'll have the support of Scotland's leading legal minds, the freedom to grow your expertise, and the satisfaction of helping clients build trust in an increasingly data-driven world
What we offer

We offer much more than just a competitive salary, and we're committed to looking after our people in every way. Here's just some of the benefits available:

Benefits

39 Days Annual Leave (includes 5 fixed public holidays) Contributory Pension Scheme with salary exchange Private Medical Insurance Critical Illness Cover Income Protection Cover Group Life Assurance Exceptional maternity, paternity, partner and adoption leave packages Assisted Conception & IVF Leave Health care cash plan to support everyday health expenses 24-hour wellbeing support Free Legal fees for moving home and life planning Cycle to Work Scheme Gym Discounts Retail Discounts Hybrid Working
Professional development

Access to a wide range of opportunities to build your expertise and advance your career, through courses, specialist accreditations, training, or business skills development.

Belonging

At Thorntons, we embrace diversity and are committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.

As a Disability Confident employer, we want to ensure that everyone has a positive experience when applying to join us. If you have a disability or are neurodivergent and need any adjustments during the recruitment process, just let us know -- we'll do everything we can to support you.

We work flexibly to meet the needs of our clients and our people. While not every role is the same, most offer a hybrid working pattern. We'll work with you to agree the right arrangement that supports you, the role, and our clients.

Make the moment matter

If you're looking for a career with a different kind of law firm, this is the moment to find out more - and apply.

Choosing the right company is about more than just the work--it's about the people, the culture, and the opportunities to grow. At Thorntons Law, we've built something different. We're one of Scotland's largest and most respected full-service legal firms, but more importantly, we're a firm that invests in you--your development, your ambitions, and your future.

All you need to do is apply by 9th November and we'll be in touch.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Work Location: In person