EY is seeking a GDS Data Protection Counsel to join our Global Delivery Services Legal team. This role offers a unique opportunity to build your career within a global organization, contributing to the enhancement of our data protection program. You will gain valuable insights into EY's global operations and collaborate with a diverse team of professionals.

This position focuses on managing Data Protection Incident Response across various GDS operating locations worldwide. As part of the GDS General Counsel’s Office (GDS GCO) Data Protection portfolio, you will play a crucial role in ensuring compliance and mitigating risks.

As an Assistant Director within the GDS Data Protection portfolio, you will provide strategic legal counsel on data incidents. You will lead and guide the Data Incident Delivery team, maintaining up-to-date documentation, policies, and escalation matrices in compliance with local laws and EY Global guidelines.

Your duties will include establishing and maintaining legal professional privilege, assessing reportability of matters to regulators and data subjects, and overseeing any necessary reporting. You will also grant legal approval for investigative steps, serve as an escalation point for complex incidents, and collaborate closely with key internal stakeholders, including the Global Deputy Lead Counsel – Data Protection Incident Response and the GDS Chief Privacy Officer.

The ideal candidate will possess approximately 10 years of post-qualification experience, with at least five years focused on Data Protection Incident Response as a legal counsel. A robust understanding of data protection principles, controls for safeguarding confidential and personal data, and strong knowledge of GDPR and related regulations are essential.

Experience with internal investigations, particularly data breach response, is advantageous. You should be comfortable navigating complex, unstructured environments, demonstrating creative thinking and logical reasoning. The ability to add value to processes, develop practical solutions, and grasp EY's global policies, alongside related Legal, Risk Management, and Data Governance initiatives, is also critical.

You must be adept at managing tasks efficiently, taking ownership of outcomes, and possess basic knowledge of project management tools. Handling confidential information appropriately, coupled with strong research and communication skills, is paramount. The capacity to manage multiple tasks, provide effective team leadership, and collaborate with a culturally diverse global team is expected.

Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills, with an inclusive approach, are vital. You should be an effective communicator with strong written and oral presentation abilities, a team player who actively listens and builds upon others' ideas. Experience in an international setting, resolving cross-border issues, and strong project management capabilities, along with excellent English proficiency, are required.

To qualify, you need a Law degree and a practising certificate in a GDS or GDPR jurisdiction, along with a strong academic background. A recognized data protection or privacy qualification, such as CIPP/E, or a willingness to obtain one within six months, is preferred.