9 months fixed term
Full time, hybrid, based in Hawkshead
We are seeking an experienced and proactive Information Governance Project Officer to join the Governance team at the Royal Veterinary College.
About the role
This is an exciting opportunity to play a leading role in strengthening and modernising the RVC's information governance framework. Working closely with the University Secretary and Information Compliance Officer, you will lead a key project to improve how information is classified, managed, retained and governed across the institution.
Offered on a fixed-term basis for 9 months, the role will be based at our Hawkshead Campus with the opportunity for hybrid working.
You will work collaboratively with colleagues across academic and professional services departments to develop a range of tools, processes and governance frameworks that support compliance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR), the Data Protection Act 2018 and the Freedom of Information Act 2000. You will also contribute to the handling of Subject Access Requests and Freedom of Information requests during busy periods.
This role offers a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact by creating key institutional resources including a Record of Processing Activities (ROPA), records retention schedule, data classification framework and policy database that will support effective information management across the RVC for years to come.
Key Responsibilities
- Developing a comprehensive Record of Processing Activities (ROPA) to support compliance with UK GDPR requirements.
- Leading data mapping activities and developing data classifications and taxonomies across the institution.
- Compiling and implementing an institutional records retention schedule using sector best practice.
- Developing and maintaining a central database of institutional policies, review dates and policy owners.
- Establishing effective relationships with data owners, information stewards and stakeholders across the RVC to gather and validate information.
- Producing reports, guidance and process documentation to support the implementation of project outputs.
- Delivering advice, training and awareness activities to support good information governance practices.
- Monitoring developments in information governance, data protection and records management and advising on their implications for the institution.
About you
We are looking for someone with:
- Experience of supporting or implementing information governance, data protection or compliance-related processes.
- A good working knowledge of UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018 and the Freedom of Information Act 2000.
- Experience of gathering information from multiple stakeholders and documenting processes, systems or information assets.
- Experience of developing reports, policies, procedures, guidance documents or related governance materials.
- Strong analytical and organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver projects to agreed deadlines.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain complex regulatory requirements to non-specialists.
- Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to build productive working relationships across a diverse organisation.
- Experience of creating, maintaining or administering document libraries, records systems or databases, together with strong Microsoft Office skills including SharePoint, Excel, Word and Visio.
- A proactive, solution-focused and collaborative approach, with integrity and discretion when handling sensitive information.
Experience within higher education or another regulated environment, together with familiarity with records management, data mapping, information asset management, retention schedules or ROPA development, would be advantageous.
This is an excellent opportunity to contribute directly to the development of the RVC's information governance maturity, helping to establish robust frameworks, improve compliance, and support the effective management of information across the institution.
We offer a generous reward package and benefits including:
- Competitive and attractive pension package
- Generous 30 days annual leave (plus bank holidays and concessionary days)
- On site café and restaurant
- Free membership to the Fitness and Wellbeing Centre located on site
- Cycle to work scheme
- A range of family friendly policies, including adoption, maternity and paternity pay and leave
For informal enquiries regarding this position before applying, please contact Laura Witt, lwitt@rvc.ac.uk
We promote equality of opportunity and diversity within the workplace and welcome applications from all sections of the community.
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. We therefore encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible.
Location: Hawkshead (nr Potters Bar, Herts)
Salary: £41,338 to £52,499 per annum including London Weighting
Closing Date: 23.59 hours GMT on Thursday 26 November 2026
Interview Date: Thursday 10 December 2026
