Information Compliance Officer(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the Role

The University of Reading is seeking an experienced Information Compliance Officer to join its Information Management and Policy Services (IMPS) team within Legal Services. This is a fixed-term maternity cover role running until May 2027 and offers a varied, engaging opportunity to work at the heart of information governance in a large, complex organisation.

IMPS plays a critical role in ensuring the University meets its legal responsibilities relating to data protection, freedom of information, and information security. Working collaboratively with colleagues across the institution, you will help safeguard personal data, support transparency, and provide practical guidance on compliance matters.

This role is well suited to an information compliance professional who enjoys applying legislation in real-world scenarios and communicating clearly with both technical and non-technical audiences.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Managing and responding to requests under Freedom of Information legislation and data protection rights
• Handling correspondence and enquiries from external regulators and agencies
• Supporting the investigation and management of information security incidents
• Providing clear, pragmatic advice on data protection to staff and students
• Assisting the University’s Data Protection Officer with:
• Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs)
• Training and awareness activities
• Policy development, updates, and briefings

About You

You will be a strong fit for this role if you can demonstrate:

A recognised professional qualification in information compliance (e.g. BCS/ISEB in Data Protection or Freedom of Information, or equivalent)

• Hands-on experience responding to FOI and data protection requests
• A solid understanding of UK data protection and freedom of information legislation
• The ability to explain complex legal requirements in a clear, practical, and accessible way
• Excellent organisational skills, with the confidence to manage multiple priorities
• A high level of discretion, professionalism, and confidentiality

Working Arrangements

The role is primarily based at the Whiteknights Campus, with some on-campus presence required each week. Hybrid working is supported, subject to operational needs and line manager agreement.

We welcome applications from both internal and external candidates. For existing University staff, this role may be considered on a secondment basis, subject to discussion with your line manager.

Flexible working options, including job-share and reduced hours, will be considered in line with business needs.

Visa Information

Due to the complexity of the Skilled Worker visa route, applicants who may require sponsorship are encouraged to review eligibility criteria independently. Visa routes will only be discussed with candidates invited to interview.
 Skilled Worker visa guidance

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

The University of Reading is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive workplace. We actively support the Athena SWAN Charter, the Race Equality Charter, and LGBT+ equality, and we are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Flexible working applications are welcomed.

Useful Government & External Resources

You may find the following resources helpful when considering this role:

• UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR)
• Freedom of Information Act 2000 overview
• Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO)
• Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs)
• Equality Act 2010 guidance