Role of the DPO (data protection officer)
The “data protection officer”, or “data protection officer” in French, has the main role, within a company, of ensuring the protection of personal information processed by the latter. Its mission is therefore to verify that the data is used in a secure but also legal way.
With the implementation of the GDPR, the DPO must also ensure that the company in which he works is in full compliance with the regulations: keeping a register, risk management, etc.
The DPO takes care of all data, whether internal (personnel information) or external (related to customers, suppliers, etc.).
The DPO works with all departments of his company. It manages, advises and alerts.
How to become a DPO?
There are specialized training courses to become a DPO. They are at bac+2 and even bac+5 level and are offered by engineering schools and universities. The ISEP (Higher Institute of Electronics in Paris), for example, has created a Master’s degree in “Management and protection of personal data”.
Other organizations also offer them. The DPMS group, a specialist in data management, has for example set up a GDPR DPO training (CNIL label) as well as an “Option preparing for the Certification exam – European Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) training – from the CIL to the DPO”.
As for the qualities required, a mastery of IT and regulations related to data protection is obviously necessary. You also have to be rigorous, reactive, serious, have a sense of communication and team spirit. In addition, being a pedagogue and versatile is essential.
The DPO: for which companies?
In 2018, all companies processing personal data on a large scale had to appoint a DPO. Those who have not done so are breaking the law. It can be a subcontractor or a principal. All public bodies must also have their own DPO.
With the tightening of data protection rules, the job of DPO is becoming more and more important. It’s a job with a future.
To note :
The profession of DPO allows you to earn between 2,500 and 5,000 euros gross per month. The salary is determined according to the experience but also the level of expertise of the person appointed to the position.