About Company
Swedbank is a leading bank in the Nordics and Baltics. We are a modern, full-service bank with a clear mission to enable people, businesses, and society to grow. In Latvia, Swedbank plays a vital role in the economy, offering a wide range of financial services to private individuals and corporate clients alike. Our operations are built on a strong foundation of responsible banking, sustainability, and innovation. We believe in fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where every employee can thrive and contribute to our shared success. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of data protection and privacy, recognizing it as a cornerstone of trust with our customers. Joining Swedbank means becoming part of an organization that values integrity, customer focus, and continuous development, all while contributing to a safer and more secure digital financial ecosystem.
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Job Description
We are seeking a highly experienced and dedicated Data Privacy Officer (DPO) to join our esteemed legal and compliance team in Riga, Latvia. This pivotal role involves ensuring Swedbank Latvija’s adherence to all relevant data protection laws and regulations, with a particular focus on the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and national data privacy legislation. As a DPO, you will be the central point of contact for data privacy matters, providing expert advice, conducting internal monitoring, and acting as a liaison with supervisory authorities. Your responsibilities will extend to developing and implementing robust data protection policies, procedures, and best practices across all business units. You will lead initiatives to raise data privacy awareness among employees through comprehensive training programs and advise on Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) for new projects and services. This role demands a proactive individual with a strong legal background, exceptional analytical skills, and the ability to translate complex legal requirements into practical, actionable strategies. You will play a crucial role in safeguarding our customers’ trust and our organizational integrity, ensuring that data privacy is embedded into the core of our operations. The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker, an effective communicator, and a proven leader in the field of data privacy, capable of navigating a dynamic regulatory landscape and fostering a culture of privacy-by-design. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact within a leading financial institution, shaping our data privacy framework and contributing to our commitment to responsible banking.
Key Responsibilities
- Serve as the primary point of contact for all data privacy matters within Swedbank Latvija, including inquiries from individuals, employees, and supervisory authorities.
- Monitor compliance with GDPR, national data protection laws, and internal data privacy policies, conducting regular audits and assessments.
- Provide expert advice and guidance on data protection impact assessments (DPIAs) for new projects, systems, and processes involving personal data.
- Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive data protection policies, procedures, and guidelines across the organization.
- Organize and deliver regular data privacy training and awareness programs for employees at all levels.
- Advise on and oversee the handling of data subject rights requests (e.g., access, rectification, erasure, portability).
- Manage and investigate data breaches, coordinating incident response and reporting to relevant authorities where necessary.
- Collaborate with legal, IT, and business units to ensure privacy-by-design and privacy-by-default principles are integrated into all data processing activities.
- Stay abreast of developments in data protection laws and best practices, proactively recommending necessary adjustments to internal procedures.
- Report regularly to senior management on the status of data privacy compliance and risks.
Required Skills
- Master's degree in Law, IT Law, or a related field.
- Minimum of 3 years of demonstrable experience in a dedicated data privacy role, preferably within the financial services sector or a highly regulated industry.
- In-depth knowledge of GDPR and relevant national data protection legislation (e.g., Latvian Personal Data Processing Law).
- Strong understanding of IT systems, data security measures, and privacy-enhancing technologies.
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills in English and Latvian, with the ability to convey complex legal concepts clearly.
- Proven ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.
Preferred Qualifications
- Professional certification in data privacy (e.g., CIPP/E, CIPM, CDPO).
- Experience with international data transfers and specific regulatory frameworks beyond GDPR.
- Project management experience in implementing data protection initiatives.
- Familiarity with cybersecurity standards and frameworks.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive health and accident insurance.
- Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
- Employee discounts on banking products and services.
- Modern office environment with ergonomic workstations.
- Dynamic and supportive international team culture.
- Hybrid work model offering flexibility.
- Wellness programs and corporate events.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by clicking the ‘Application Link’ below. Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your experience and qualifications for this role. We look forward to reviewing your application.
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