Data Privacy Officer

Equity Group Holdings is hiring a Data Privacy Officer to lead and manage its data protection framework across the multiple jurisdictions where the Group operates. This role offers a unique opportunity for legal, compliance, and cybersecurity professionals to grow within a leading Pan-African financial institution. If you’re passionate about privacy rights, data security, and regional compliance, this position could be the next big step in your career.

• Position: Data Privacy Officer
• Location: Nairobi, Kenya (with regional oversight responsibilities)
• Employment Type: Full-Time (Regular)
• Experience Level: Entry-Level to Mid-Level
• Salary: Competitive and commensurate with qualifications

About Equity Group Holdings

Equity Group Holdings is one of the most influential financial services providers in Africa. With operations spanning Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, Equity serves more than 12 million customers—making it one of the continent’s largest banks by customer base. The Group’s mission is to transform lives through inclusive financial solutions, technology innovation, and impactful community investments.

Equity is also at the forefront of digital banking transformation in Africa, continually investing in technologies and policies that ensure data security, transparency, and compliance with global privacy standards. The organization is guided by values of integrity, respect, innovation, and excellence—creating an ideal environment for professionals eager to make a tangible impact in data governance and compliance.

Job Description

The Data Privacy Officer will be responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining a comprehensive data protection framework that complies with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), Kenya’s Data Protection Act, and other jurisdiction-specific data privacy regulations. This role involves close collaboration with departments such as IT Security, Legal, Risk, and Compliance across the Group’s operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the implementation and maintenance of a group-wide data privacy governance framework.
• Ensure ongoing compliance with data protection laws in all jurisdictions where Equity operates.
• Serve as the primary liaison with Data Protection Authorities and regulatory bodies.
• Conduct and advise on privacy impact assessments for new projects, systems, and vendors.
• Review vendor contracts to ensure data handling aligns with the bank’s privacy obligations.
• Support fulfilment of data subject rights across all customer and operational touchpoints.
• Develop internal privacy policies, standards, and procedures based on GDPR and regional data laws.
• Raise employee awareness and conduct training programs on data privacy and information security.
• Monitor performance, audit data processes, and provide strategic guidance on privacy practices.
• Maintain detailed records of all data processing activities, which are available upon regulatory request.
• Engage directly with customers to explain how their data is used and protected.
• Coordinate with IT Security and Legal to maintain data asset inventories, incident logs, and breach response protocols.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Law, Computer Science, Information Systems, or related field.
• Understanding of GDPR, Data Protection Act (Kenya), and regional data privacy frameworks.
• Proven ability to manage compliance and regulatory processes in a corporate setting.
• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) and strong attention to detail.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to interpret complex legal and technical documents.

Preferred Qualifications

• Data Protection Officer (DPO) certification or relevant training.
• Experience working in financial services, legal compliance, or information security roles.
• Familiarity with system integration testing and user acceptance testing (UAT).
• Exposure to managing data governance in cloud environments or enterprise systems.

Key Competencies and Attributes

• Ability to lead and influence from the front with a high degree of initiative.
• Adaptable and proactive with strong organizational and planning skills.
• Comfortable working under pressure and maintaining composure in high-stakes situations.
• Customer-oriented mindset with the ability to explain complex issues in simple terms.
• Quick learner with a willingness to adopt new systems and regulatory tools.
• Excellent relationship-building skills across internal departments and external partners.

Benefits and Compensation

Equity Group Holdings offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your career growth and personal well-being:

• Competitive salary and annual performance incentives
• Comprehensive medical cover (inpatient and outpatient)
• Group life and personal accident insurance
• Training and professional development opportunities
• Flexible work schedules and family-friendly policies
• Access to staff banking and investment services

How to Apply

If you’re passionate about privacy law and data governance, and want to play a pivotal role in shaping compliance strategy within a market-leading financial institution, Equity Group Holdings invites you to apply.

Submit your application through the Equity Group Holdings Careers Portal. Ensure you include an updated CV, a cover letter detailing your interest and suitability, and any relevant certifications or references.

Application Deadline: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Early submissions are encouraged.

Explore more data privacy careers in Kenya and compliance job opportunities at Equity Group Holdings by visiting the official careers portal today.