Data Privacy Officer Job Vacancy in Windhoek, Namibia – Legal & Compliance

Job Description

Position: Data Privacy Officer

Company: Ernst & Young Namibia

Location: Windhoek, Namibia

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

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

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Legal & Compliance

Department: Risk & Compliance

Salary: SSP 300,000 – 500,000 per annum

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Ernst & Young Namibia is a leading professional services firm providing audit, tax, advisory and consulting solutions to a diverse portfolio of clients across the public and private sectors. With a strong commitment to integrity, innovation and sustainability, EY Namibia supports organisations in navigating complex regulatory environments, driving digital transformation and building resilient business models. The firm’s Namibia office, located in the heart of Windhoek, serves as a hub for regional expertise, offering career opportunities that blend global best practices with local market insight. As part of a global network, EY Namibia attracts top talent and fosters a culture of continuous learning, making it an ideal environment for professionals seeking to advance their careers while contributing to Namibia’s economic growth. This role aligns with EY’s strategic focus on data privacy, a critical component of modern governance and risk management, and offers exposure to high‑impact projects across banking, telecommunications, mining, and government sectors.

Job Overview

The Data Privacy Officer will lead EY Namibia’s privacy practice, advising clients on compliance with Namibia’s Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) and international data protection frameworks such as GDPR. The role involves developing privacy strategies, conducting impact assessments, designing governance frameworks, and delivering training programs to embed privacy by design across client organisations. As a senior advisor, you will collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including legal, cybersecurity, and audit professionals, to provide holistic solutions that mitigate risk and enhance trust. This position offers a unique platform to influence policy, shape industry standards, and drive the adoption of best‑in‑class privacy practices throughout Namibia and the broader Southern African region.

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Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive data privacy programs tailored to client needs, ensuring alignment with POPIA, GDPR and other relevant regulations.
• Conduct Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) and privacy risk analyses for complex projects across multiple industries.
• Advise senior leadership on privacy governance, policy formulation, and incident response planning.
• Lead workshops and training sessions to raise awareness of privacy obligations among employees and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with cybersecurity teams to integrate privacy controls into security architectures and data lifecycle management.
• Monitor regulatory developments and provide timely updates to clients and internal teams.
• Prepare and review privacy documentation, including notices, consent mechanisms, and data processing agreements.
• Support audit engagements by evaluating privacy controls and recommending remediation actions.

Required Skills

• In‑depth knowledge of POPIA, GDPR, and other global data protection laws.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities with a focus on risk mitigation.
• Excellent communication skills, capable of translating complex legal concepts into actionable business recommendations.
• Proven experience in conducting DPIAs and privacy impact assessments.
• Ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams and manage multiple client engagements simultaneously.
• Certification such as CIPP/US, CIPP/E, or equivalent is highly desirable.

Education

A bachelor’s degree in Law, Information Security, Computer Science, or a related discipline is required. Advanced qualifications such as a Master’s in Data Privacy, Cyber Law, or an MBA with a focus on risk management are advantageous. Professional certifications (CIPP, CIPM, CISA) demonstrate a commitment to the field and are strongly preferred.

Experience

Minimum of five years of hands‑on experience in data privacy, compliance, or legal advisory roles, preferably within a consulting environment. Experience serving clients in regulated sectors such as banking, telecommunications, mining, or government will be considered a significant asset. Demonstrated track record of leading privacy projects from inception to delivery is essential.

Salary

The successful candidate will receive a competitive annual salary ranging from SSP 300,000 to SSP 500,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. EY Namibia also offers performance‑based bonuses, pension contributions, and a comprehensive benefits package.

Benefits

• Health and dental insurance coverage for employee and dependents.
• Retirement savings plan with employer matching.
• Generous paid leave, including annual, sick and parental leave.
• Professional development budget for certifications, conferences and advanced training.
• Flexible working arrangements and remote work options.
• Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.

Training

• Onboarding program covering EY’s methodologies, tools and privacy frameworks.
• Access to EY’s global learning platform for continuous skill enhancement.
• Mentorship from senior privacy experts and legal partners.
• Opportunities to attend international privacy conferences and workshops.

Working Environment

EY Namibia offers a dynamic, inclusive and collaborative workplace where diversity of thought is celebrated. The office is located in a modern business district of Windhoek, equipped with state‑of‑the‑art technology, meeting rooms and quiet zones for focused work. Employees benefit from a culture that encourages innovation, ethical conduct and community involvement, aligning with EY’s global purpose of building a better working world.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining relevant experience through the EY Careers portal. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be invited to a virtual interview followed by an on‑site assessment with senior partners.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Ernst & Young Namibia is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, race, disability, religion, sexual orientation or age. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination.