Associate/Senior Associate - Data & Privacy

Department: Commercial Technology and Regulatory

Employment Type: Permanent

Location: Manchester

Description

We are seeking a motivated and commercially minded 4+ PQE Data Protection Lawyer to join DAC Beachcroft's leading Data, Privacy & Cyber practice. Our full service practice is at an exciting point in its growth, having recently been recognised as Tier 2 in the Legal 500 rankings. We are a dynamic and friendly team who work together to help our clients realise their ambitions. This role is primarily focussed on advisory data protection matters, although there will be some opportunity to support on cyber related matters if desired.

We support our clients on all aspects of data protection compliance, digital transformation projects, cyber readiness and AI governance. We help them to navigate complex risk and regulatory landscapes, supporting on some of the most high-profile and innovative matters in the market. The successful candidate will work with a broad range of clients including financial institutions, insurers, retailers, technology providers and major corporates, providing strategic advice on UK and international data protection compliance.

This role will be based in Manchester or London, and offers the opportunity to grow (both technically and from a career progression perspective) within one of the UK's most respected practices and ample opportunities to engage in business development activities.

This role sits within DAC Beachcroft's broader Commercial, Technology & Regulatory practice which combines commercial contract and technology-law expertise with regulatory, compliance and industry-specific regulation advice, enabling clients from tech firms to public-sector bodies to navigate IT outsourcing, software licensing, technology implementation, procurement and regulatory risk efficiently.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide clear, practical advice on all aspects of data protection (and related) regulatory frameworks.
• Support clients with the roll out of global initiatives, including AI related projects.
• Prepare responses and submissions to the ICO and other regulators.
• Assist with regulatory investigations, enforcement work and contentious data protection matters (depending on experience).
• Work collaboratively across other areas of the firm, particularly Technology, Commercial, Healthcare Regulatory and Insurance.
• Contribute to and, where appropriate, lead business development initiatives
• Supervise, mentor and support junior lawyers and trainees, delegating effectively, reviewing work product and contributing to their professional development.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• Qualified 4+PQE solicitor in England & Wales (or equivalent).
• A strong academic track record at degree and A-levels (or equivalent).
• Experience advising on data protection and privacy law within a law firm or in-house environment.
• Strong understanding of UK/EU regimes and relevant regulatory guidance.
• A proactive approach to business development, with evidence of contributing to client growth, profile-raising or successful pitches.
• Excellent drafting skills and ability to provide clear, commercially focused advice.
• Ability to manage multiple matters, deadlines and client relationships confidently.
• Experience or familiarity with cyber/data-breach response and regulatory engagement is advantageous.