The Data Protection Specialist – Investigations will be responsible for managing the investigation caseload of the Personal Data Protection Office (PDPO), including conducting investigations into alleged violations of the Data Protection and Privacy Act, Cap. 97, gathering and preserving evidence, preparing investigation reports, and representing the Office in court proceedings and other legal fora.
Key Accountabilities
a) Conduct investigations into complaints received by PDPO, including interviewing complainants, witnesses, and respondents, and gathering documentary and digital evidence.
b) Manage and maintain a case register, ensuring timely progression of all investigation matters and adherence to statutory timelines.
c) Prepare detailed investigation reports with findings of fact, legal analysis, and recommended courses of action.
d) Draft PDPO’s orders, notices, and other legal instruments directed at data collectors, controllers, and processors in relation to investigation outcomes.
e) Prepare evidence briefs, witness statements, and court documents, and appear before courts and tribunals to present evidence and prosecute matters on behalf of PDPO.
f) Liaise with the Uganda Police Force, the Office of the Directorate of Public Prosecutions, and other law enforcement agencies to ensure that criminal investigations arising from data protection and privacy violations are completed in a timely and effective manner.
g) Carry out cross-border investigations and inspections in the context of mutual legal assistance with other Data Protection Authorities.
h) Perform any other duties as may be assigned by the Manager Compliance and Investigations.
Qualifications and Experience
Education
a) Bachelor of Laws (Hons.) degree from a recognized university is required;
b) Post Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice from Law Development Centre is required;
c) A valid High Court Practicing Certificate is required;
d) An internationally recognised Data Protection and Privacy certification is an added advantage.
Experience
a) A minimum of four (4) years’ post-qualification experience in litigation, or prosecution in a reputable public or private organisation is required.
b) Experience working with or within a Government body, law enforcement agency, or accountability institution is an added advantage.
Technical Expertise
a) Knowledge of Uganda’s criminal and regulatory legal framework, including the Penal Code Act, Cap 128, Criminal Procedure Code Act, Cap 122, and Evidence Act, Cap 8.
b) Knowledge of Uganda’s Data Protection and Privacy legal framework.
c) Demonstrated trial advocacy and courtroom skills.
d) Training or certification in Alternative Dispute Resolution (mediation, negotiation, or arbitration) is an added advantage.
Nature and Scope
a) Excellent interpersonal and networking skills to maintain productive working relationships with stakeholders, including law enforcement, the judiciary, and other regulators.
b) Excellent oral and written communication skills.
c) Ability to manage multiple cases simultaneously and prioritise assignments to meet deadlines.
d) High integrity and commitment to ethical professional conduct