The Role of an Outsourced Data Protection Officer

In an age where data drives business operations and privacy concerns are paramount, organisations are under increasing pressure to ensure the protection of personal information. A Data Protection Officer (DPO) is a pivotal role designed to oversee data security and compliance. While having an in-house DPO might seem like the logical choice, outsourcing this responsibility has become a strategic and efficient alternative. In this article, we'll delve into the reasons why outsourcing a DPO could be the best decision for your organisation.

1. DPO Expertise and Experience

Data protection regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) are becoming more complex and stringent. Outsourced DPOs are often seasoned professionals who specialise in privacy and data security. Their extensive experience allows them to stay updated with the evolving landscape of regulations, ensuring that your organisation remains compliant at all times.

2. Cost Effective DPO

Hiring a full-time, in-house DPO can be financially burdensome for many organisations. Apart from a competitive salary, you'd also have to consider additional costs like benefits, training, and office space. Outsourcing allows you to tap into a pool of highly qualified professionals without the overhead costs, making it a cost-effective solution, especially for small to medium-sized enterprises.

3. Objectivity and Independence

An outsourced DPO brings an objective perspective to your data protection practices. They are not influenced by internal politics or biases, which can sometimes cloud the judgment of an in-house DPO. This objectivity ensures that decisions are made in the best interest of data subjects and compliance, fostering a culture of transparency and accountability.

4. Flexibility and Scalability

Business needs can change rapidly, and outsourcing your DPO gives you the flexibility to adjust resources as required. Whether you need their services on a project basis or for ongoing compliance management, an outsourced DPO can be tailored to your specific needs. This scalability is particularly valuable for organisations experiencing growth or those navigating seasonal fluctuations in data processing.

5. Reduced Conflict of Interest

In smaller organisations, assigning the DPO role to an existing employee can lead to conflicts of interest. For instance, the DPO might also be responsible for data processing activities, which could compromise their ability to impartially oversee compliance. Outsourcing eliminates such conflicts, allowing the DPO to focus solely on safeguarding data and ensuring regulatory adherence.

6. Access to Comprehensive Skill Sets

Data protection encompasses a wide array of skills, from legal knowledge to IT security expertise. Outsourced DPOs often come equipped with a diverse skill set that can address the multifaceted challenges of data privacy. This ensures that your organisation benefits from a holistic approach to compliance.

7. Reduced Training Time

Bringing an in-house DPO up to speed can be time-consuming, especially if they are new to the field. An Outsourced DPO is already well-versed in the intricacies of data protection regulations and industry best practices, requiring minimal training before they can start contributing effectively to your organisation.

DLP Assured can help you with ongoing compliance to the UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Data Protection Act 2018. We offer an outsourced DPO service as well as an outsourced CISO service.