Senior Data Protection Officer (Head of DPU)

Job Title Senior Data Protection Officer (Head of DPU) Job Posting Job Posting: 09/Sep/2025 Closure Date Closure Date: 30/Sep/2025, 9:59:00 PM Organizational Unit: ODG Job Type Staff position Type of Requisition Professional Primary Location Italy-Rome Duration Fixed-term: two years with possibility of extension Post Number: 2009409 CCOG Code: 1A21 IMPORTANT NOTICE: Closure Date and Time displayed above are based on date and time settings of your personal device. The length of appointment for internal FAO candidates will be established in accordance with applicable policies pertaining to the extension of appointments. _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ FAO is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality, background and culture. Qualified female applicants, qualified nationals of non-and under-represented Members and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidentiality. FAO staff are subject to the authority of the Director-General, who may assign them to any of the activities or offices of the Organization. FAO’s commitment to environmental sustainability is integral to our strategic objectives and operations. The organization contributes to the 2030 Agenda through FAO Strategic Framework to support sustainable agrifood systems. Organizational Setting The Data Protection Unit (DPU) is an independent function in the Office of the Director-General (ODG). It oversees and supports implementation of the FAO Data Protection Policy. The Senior Data Protection Officer heads the DPU. The position is located in the Office of the Director-General (ODG) at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy. Reporting Lines The Senior Data Protection Officer (Head of DPU) reports to the Director-General. This reporting line is without prejudice to the functional independence of the incumbent in the performance of duties. Technical Focus Lead the Organization's efforts to strengthen data protection in the context of all activities and operations. Key Results The planning, management and delivery of multidisciplinary data protection related activities. Key Functions Promotes and strengthens the data protection culture in FAO, supporting the formulation of procedures, internal guidelines, tools, rules and other instruments, considering FAO operations in the field and at headquarters, and new trends in data protection. Plans, manages and leads the work of the DPU to ensure efficient discharge of its functions, monitor implementation of the FAO Data Protection Policy, assess compliance in all FAO units and offices globally, and maintain robust monitoring, recording and reporting mechanisms. Acts as Secretary and coordinates secretariat support to the Data Protection Oversight Committee to enable its functions. Takes a lead role in identifying and coordinating responses to organizational data privacy needs and risks, and formulates necessary capabilities. Leads responses to requests and complaints from data providers, coordinating with relevant FAO units to ensure prompt action. Plans and delivers training and sensitization activities to promote policy compliance across FAO personnel. Coordinates with the Data Coordination Group to ensure data protection issues are considered within broader data management context. Prepares and presents reports and briefings to the Governing Bodies and Senior Management, including recommendations for policy updates. Monitors international developments in data protection to keep FAO policies up to date with good practice. Represents FAO in UN system and other international fora related to data protection and strengthens collaboration with other UN organizations. Performs other duties as required. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Candidates will be assessed against the following Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in a relevant discipline (e.g., law, information science, public administration, information management, computer science). Data protection certifications (e.g., CIPP, CIPM, CIPT). Ten years of relevant experience in data protection disciplines. Working knowledge of English and intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian or Spanish). Technical/functional skills: leadership, integrity, confidentiality, cross-functional team management, data protection policy design, data breaches, training and awareness. Experience in international organizations and in diverse locations; knowledge of UN system data protection practices is desirable. Ability to communicate effectively with senior management; experience with intergovernmental organizations is desirable. Working knowledge of another FAO official language is an asset. _________________________________________________________________ FAO staff are expected to adhere to FAO Values of Commitment to FAO, Respect for All and Integrity and Transparency. _________________________________________________________________ General Information Extension of fixed-term appointments is based on performance and funding. FAO reserves the right not to make an appointment. Appointment will be subject to medical fitness, accreditation, residency/visa requirements, and security clearances. Conditions of Service A competitive compensation and benefits package is offered. For UN salary information, refer to FAO guidance. Other benefits include: dependency allowances, rental subsidy, education grant for children, home leave travel, 30 working days of annual leave, UN JSPF entitlements, international health insurance, optional life insurance, and disability protection. FAO encourages a positive workplace culture to increase inclusivity and diversity, including family-friendly policies, flexible working arrangements and conduct standards. _________________________________________________________________________________________________ How to Apply To apply, visit the recruitment website and complete your online profile. Attach a motivation letter. Ensure your profile is accurate and complete. Applications are accepted only through the FAO recruitment portal. You may be asked to provide verification checks. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Your information may be shared within FAO and with service providers for employment support services with your consent. You may withdraw consent at any time. Applications should be submitted well before the deadline. For assistance, please contact FAO support: https://fao.service-now.com/csp J-18808-Ljbffr

Location: Roma, Lazio, IT

Posted Date: 9/16/2025