Data Protection Lead

About the role

The Data Protection Lead will champion privacy across Equity Bank’s multi‑country operations, ensuring personal data is handled lawfully, ethically and securely. Reporting to senior management, the role will design and implement a unified privacy framework that supports seamless customer onboarding while complying with global and African data protection regulations.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and steer the bank’s data protection strategy and governance model.
• Lead compliance and risk management activities, monitoring adherence to GDPR, Kenyan and other African privacy laws.
• Enable lawful data sharing across business lines and jurisdictions to create a “One Customer View”.
• Manage privacy‑related incidents, investigations and remediation actions.
• Design and deliver training and awareness programmes for staff on data privacy and security.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in law, information technology or a related field; a Master’s degree is a plus.
• Professional data‑privacy certification (e.g., CIPP/E, CIPT, CIPM, FIP).
• 8–10 years of senior‑level experience in data protection, preferably within a multi‑jurisdictional financial‑services or technology organisation.
• Deep knowledge of GDPR and African data‑protection regulations and their practical application.
• Proven track record of building enterprise‑wide privacy frameworks.
• Strong understanding of IT security controls and privacy‑enhancing technologies.

Required skills