DATA PROTECTION OFFICER – Botswana Digital & Innovation Hub (Bdih)

Organization Name: Botswana Digital & Innovation Hub (BDIH)

The role is responsible for spearheading initiatives to embed best practices in data management,, and compliance across the hub. Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, the position will drive innovative approaches to policy implementation, data stewardship, risk assessment, and capacity building, ensuring that the Hub's activities align with relevant data protection standards and foster a culture of responsible data use. Key Responsibilities Lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of data strategies and guidelines. Develop and refine notices, consent forms and related documentation to ensure they are clear, transparent and aligned with best practices and fostering trust within the hub. Collaborate across teams to embed compliance with data protection laws into innovative projects and workflows, ensuring data handling practices are secure and ethically sound. Oversee data flow and storage processes within the hub by ensuring that all data collection, processing and storage activities are properly documented and compliant with laws and regulations. Maintain comprehensive records of data processing activities and ensure that data rights and freedoms of all stakeholders are protected. Evaluate potential risks associated with data processing activities in new projects. Lead impact assessments to understand and mitigate risks, promoting responsible data management. Assist teams in managing inquiries, requests, and complaints related to data processing, ensuring transparency and responsiveness in our data. Investigate data breaches and security incidents, document findings and implement corrective actions to prevent future occurrences. Assess and oversee the data protection practices of third-party vendors and service providers with whom the Hub shares personal data to ensure compliance and safeguard information. Conduct regular audits of data handling practices across departments to identify gaps and opportunities for enhancement. Recommend and implement remedial actions to strengthen data governance. Deliver training programs and awareness campaigns to foster a data-conscious culture within the hub. Create educational tools to inform staff about data protection principles and their importance in innovative work. Staying abreast with changes in data protection laws and guiding the hub on necessary updates. Serve as the hub's point of contact for data protection authorities. Prepare and submit reports on data processing activities and compliance status. Represent the hub in discussions/forums on data matters, advocating for responsible data management and processing. Prepare and manage budgets related to data initiatives. Ensure efficient use of resources and alignment with strategic project plans. Requirements Bachelor's Degree in Law/Data Science/Information Security, Information Management, Risk Management o