The Data Protection Officer will report to the General Counsel and has primary responsibility for fulfilling the statutory duties of Data Protection Officer in accordance with GDPR, providing independent oversight and advice on data protection compliance across the organisation.
The role leads the Data Protection/ Privacy function, including line management and oversight of the privacy team, providing expert interpretation and oversight of the application of data protection law in the context of international aviation and airline operations.
The role plays a key role in oversight and advisory governance of technology projects from development stage onwards. In addition, the DPO plays an important part in the governance of digital, data and AI‑enabled initiatives, contributing to broader corporate compliance and risk considerations where these intersect with data protection (including participation in oversight /governance activities relating to information security / technology risk governance and strategy).
The role provides strategic direction and independent oversight of how data protection compliance is embedded across the organisation, including operating‑model optimisation and the appropriate use of technology and process design.
Responsibilities
Work collaboratively with Legal, Technology, Cybersecurity, Commercial and Operations teams to embed sustainable privacy practices into business processes and decision‑
Oversee privacy risk identification and mitigation
Lead and coordinate information requests from supervisory authorities, including preparation, representation and remediation planning.
Technology, Digital & AI Oversight
Provide privacy-by-design oversight for digital and AI initiatives.
Provide advice and guidance re compliance with EU AI Act
Provide data protection oversight for international and cross-border technology deployments involving personal data.
Data Subject Rights & Incident Response
Oversee DSAR governance and breach response
Provide leadership during personal data breaches and privacy incidents
Transformation and Change Leadership
Provide strategic leadership and oversight for changes to Aer Lingus’ approach to data protection, including the use of technology and AI enabled tools.
Set the strategic direction for data protection training and awareness and assess maturity.
Promote a culture of accountability and privacy awareness
Your Qualifications & Key Criteria
Demonstrated experience as a data protection professional, including formal responsibility for GDPR compliance; relevant certification (e.g. CIPP/E) desirable.
Strong background in data protection.
Experience advising on complex regulatory issues in a data driven organisation.
Excellent drafting and communication skills, with the ability to produce clear, concise and well-structured advice and materials for senior management, Boards, regulators and other stakeholders.
Proven ability to exercise sound judgement and independence.
Comfortable operating at senior executive and Board level, providing credible, trusted advice and challenge where required.
Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to build and maintain effective relationships across Legal, Technology, Cyber Security, Commercial and Operations teams.
High level of commercial awareness, with a clear understanding of the role of data protection compliance in enabling business objectives.
Highly organised and self-directed, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast paced environment.
Ability to analyse, simplify and clearly articulate complex issues, with strong attention to detail.
A collaborative and credible interpersonal style, with strong listening, influencing and communication skills.
Experience working successfully in a performance driven, results focused organisation.
Proven ability to operate effectively in an inhouse environment, exercising independence while remaining pragmatic and solutions focused.
Experience in other areas of corporate compliance (KYC, sanctions, disclosures etc) would also be of benefit.
The role is ideally suited to a legally qualified professional (though this is not a requirement). In addition to fulfilling the statutory responsibilities of the Data Protection Officer, the role holder may, where appropriate and subject to capacity and absence of conflict of interests, contribute to other areas of legal or corporate compliance activity.
What they offer?
As well as offering you a competitive salary, career advancement opportunities and staff travel benefits (with Aer Lingus and many other international airlines), you will also have the opportunity to work in a dynamic and collaborative environment and to join a team of amazing professionals who are passionate about the aviation industry. To learn more about the exciting benefits and opportunities that await you at Aer Lingus please visit Aer Lingus website.
At Aer Lingus, they embrace diversity and believe in providing equal opportunities to all qualified individuals. They are dedicated to cultivating an inclusive and respectful work environment that values employees' unique backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. They do not discriminate based on race, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or any other protected status. As an equal opportunity employer, they encourage applications from all candidates who share their passion for aviation. If you have any questions or require any accommodations to support you in your application, please contact recruit@aerlingus.com.
Closing date for applications is 23 April 2026.
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