Job Description

Freedom of Information and Data Protection Case Officer

Salary:

36,650

Hours:

Full Time / Part Time (Min 0.8 FTE)

Contract Type:

Open Ended

Location:

Polaris House, Swindon (Hybrid Working)

Grade:

D

Closing Date: Sunday 31st August 2025

Job Overview:

The Information Governance Group supports UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) in meeting its statutory responsibilities under data protection, freedom of information and environmental information regulations legislation.


The successful candidate will work with Senior Information Rights Managers to deliver timely, high-quality responses to Freedom of Information Act (FOI) and Environmental Information Regulation (EIR) requests or data protection subject rights requests.


They will provide day-to-day case handling for information rights requests and will be responsible for the initial assessment of requests, gathering information and assessment of any exemptions that may apply.


They will be the first point of contact with the requester and relevant business areas and they will also support the embedding of good information governance across UKRI. The role requires an in-depth understanding of both freedom of information legislation and data protection legislation.


They will ensure strong linkages between the Information Governance Group and UKRI councils and business areas.

Reporting To:

Senior Information Rights Manager

Key Responsibilities:

Respond to data subject rights requests and supporting Senior Information Rights Managers in handling complex requests. Respond to FOI and EIR requests and supporting the Senior Information Rights Managers in handling complex requests. Determine whether material requested is exempt from disclosure, applying the public interest test where appropriate. Work with Senior Information Rights Managers to ensure compliance with legislation. Keep up to date with best practice and developments in data protection legislation and freedom of information legislation, sharing with the team as necessary. Provide support to data protection team in responding to general enquiries and incidents when required. Provide input to the regular update of policies and procedures.
Stakeholder Relationships:


Internal


Contacts across UKRI for input to information requests, assistance with information provision and advice and input on information governance and other issues Relevant internal committees, working groups, information rights contacts in UKRI institutes Legal team
External


UK Shared Business Services Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (UKRI's sponsor department) and other Government Departments Information Commissioner's Office The public and other stakeholders, including 3 rd parties UKRI works with

Person Specification:

(S) - Shortlisting Criteria (I) - Interview Criteria (S & I) - Shortlisting and Interview Criteria


Essential


Demonstrable experience working with information rights legislation in a complex organisation (S)*
Understanding of freedom of information and data protection legislation (I)*
Proven ability to interpret legislation and guidance relating to information rights requests, apply knowledge to make decisions on the release of information and the application of exemptions effectively (I)*
Effective communication skills (S & I)*
Strong team working skills with the ability to network beyond the core team and consult subject matter experts and other stakeholders (S & I)*
Ability to formulate and offer clear advice to colleagues and stakeholders on information rights, legal, regulatory and policy issues (I)*
Effective written skills and attention to detail (S & I)*
Ability to multi-task, prioritise own work load and work proactively (S & I)*
Flexible approach to working, to meet changing business priorities and meet targets and deadlines (S & I)*
Proficiency in IT skills (Office 365 and redaction software) (S)*
Demonstrable analytical, research and problem-solving skills (I)*

Desirable


Holds a professional freedom of information/data protection qualification (S)*
Ability to manage complex cases involving multiple exemptions (S & I)*
Experience of working with eCase (case management system) (S & I)*

Candidates selected for interview will be expected to complete a written test exercise as part of the interview process.

Application Guidance:

How to evidence the criteria:


You are encouraged to use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) in the cover letter to evidence your ability to meet the 'person specification' criteria in the job description. Cover letters should be no more than two sides of A4 (minimum font size 11). For examples of the STAR method, please visit: The STAR method | National Careers Service '.

Benefits

We recognise and value our employees as individuals and aim to provide a favourable pay and rewards package! We are committed to supporting employees' development and promote a culture of continuous learning! A list of benefits below;


An outstanding defined benefit pension scheme 30 days' annual leave in addition to 10.5 public and privilege days (full time equivalent) Employee discounts and offers on retail and leisure activities Employee assistance programme, providing confidential help and advice Flexible working options
Please click here for more details on the https://www.discover.ukri.org/benefits-of-working-at-ukri/index.html