Data Privacy Officer Job Vacancy in Polokwane, South Africa – Legal & Compliance

Job Description

Position: Data Privacy Officer

Company: Barclays Africa Group

Location: Polokwane, South Africa

Experience: 5+ years in data protection, privacy law, or compliance roles

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Law, Information Security, or related field

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Legal & Compliance

Department: Compliance

Salary: SSP 600,000 – SSP 900,000 per annum

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Barclays Africa Group is a leading international banking and financial services institution with a strong footprint across the African continent. In South Africa, Barclays has been a catalyst for economic growth, offering innovative solutions to individuals, corporations, and governments. The Group’s commitment to responsible banking, digital transformation, and sustainable development makes it an employer of choice for professionals seeking impactful careers. As part of its ongoing expansion, Barclays continues to invest in robust governance frameworks, ensuring that data privacy and regulatory compliance are at the core of its operations. This dedication creates a dynamic environment for talent looking to contribute to high‑profile projects while advancing South Africa Jobs and broader career aspirations.

Job Overview

The Data Privacy Officer will lead Barclays Africa Group’s privacy program in South Africa, ensuring compliance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) and other global data protection regulations. Reporting to the Head of Compliance, the role involves developing policies, conducting impact assessments, and advising business units on privacy risks. The successful candidate will act as the primary liaison with regulators, manage data breach responses, and foster a culture of privacy awareness across the organization. For more information about the company and its values, visit Barclays Africa Group Careers. This position offers a unique platform to influence data governance while supporting the Group’s strategic objectives, making it a standout Job Vacancy in South Africa for privacy professionals.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive data privacy framework aligned with POPIA and international standards.
• Conduct Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) for new products, services, and technology initiatives.
• Provide privacy guidance and training to business units, ensuring consistent application of policies.
• Monitor regulatory developments and advise senior management on emerging privacy risks.
• Lead incident response activities for data breaches, including investigation, reporting, and remediation.
• Maintain records of processing activities and oversee data subject request handling.
• Collaborate with IT, Legal, and Risk teams to embed privacy by design into system architectures.
• Prepare and submit regular compliance reports to internal audit and external regulators.

Required Skills

• In‑depth knowledge of POPIA, GDPR, and other relevant data protection laws.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities with attention to detail.
• Excellent communication skills for presenting complex privacy concepts to non‑technical audiences.
• Proven experience in drafting privacy policies, notices, and contractual clauses.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize tasks in a fast‑paced environment.
• Familiarity with information security standards such as ISO 27001.
• Ethical mindset with a commitment to upholding confidentiality and integrity.

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in Law, Information Security, Computer Science, or a related discipline is required. Professional certifications such as CIPP/SA, CIPM, or ISO 27701 are highly desirable and demonstrate a commitment to ongoing professional development.

Experience

Candidates must have at least five years of hands‑on experience in data privacy, compliance, or legal advisory roles within a regulated industry. Experience in the banking or financial services sector is advantageous, given the complex data environments and heightened regulatory scrutiny.

Salary

The role offers a competitive salary range of SSP 600,000 to SSP 900,000 per annum, reflective of experience and expertise. Performance‑based incentives and annual reviews ensure that top performers are rewarded appropriately, reinforcing Barclays’ reputation as a premier employer for Jobs in South Africa.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical and dental coverage for employees and dependents.
• Retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
• Generous paid leave, including annual, sick, and parental leave.
• Professional development budget for certifications and conferences.
• Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.
• Flexible working arrangements and remote work options where applicable.

Training

• Onboarding program covering Barclays’ compliance culture and systems.
• Access to internal learning platforms for privacy law updates.
• Mentorship from senior compliance leaders.
• Opportunities to attend industry workshops and seminars.

Working Environment

Barclays Africa Group provides a collaborative, inclusive, and technology‑driven workplace. The Polokwane office features modern workspaces, secure data facilities, and a supportive team culture that encourages innovation. Employees benefit from a diverse workforce, open communication channels, and a strong emphasis on work‑life balance, making it an attractive destination for professionals seeking Employment in South Africa.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their application through the Barclays Careers portal. The process includes an online questionnaire, submission of a detailed CV, and a cover letter highlighting relevant privacy experience. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to a virtual interview followed by an on‑site assessment with the Compliance team. Successful candidates will receive an offer letter outlining compensation, benefits, and start date.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Barclays Africa Group is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of race, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic. Our hiring practices reflect our dedication to fairness and the belief that diverse perspectives drive better business outcomes. Join us and be part of a team that values your unique contributions while advancing your career in South Africa.