Tom Woods

Associate Director | Privacy, Responsible AI and Cyber Security

Germany, Ireland, UK

Tom Woods headshot

TOM’s Recent placements

  • Global DPO | Virgin Atlantic
  • VP Privacy Lead | Barclays
  • DPO | Multiverse
  • Senior Privacy Counsel | Square Health
  • DPO | London Luton Airport
  • Head of Privacy | JMAN Group
  • Privacy Compliance Manager | Daily Mail Group

Tom recruits across the UK, Ireland, and US with a focus on placing digital regulation professionals, both permanent and interim across privacy, cyber security and responsible AI. Typical mandates include Data Protection Officers, AI Governance Leads and Information Security Managers. Tom has recruited across these spaces since 2016 and holds an MSc in Business of Football and a History degree from Cardiff University.

tom’s testimonials

Sylvia Ericson | Head of Privacy | JMAN Group

I had the pleasure of working with Tom during my search for a senior technology/privacy role in London, and he truly stood out. We first met at a privacy event (which is not unusual, as Tom attends these events frequently), and it was immediately clear that he takes the privacy and AI governance space seriously – he’s not just recruiting for the industry, he’s immersed in it.

What impressed me most was his insight. He remembered exactly what I was looking for (even beyond pure privacy roles) and reached out the moment a role evolved to match my profile perfectly – a role that ultimately led to my signing as Senior Legal Counsel & Head of Privacy at JMAN Group. Throughout the process, he was always thoughtful, prepared, and consistently aligned both sides. He even helped navigate a job-title discussion to ensure everyone landed in the right place.

For anyone in the privacy and AI governance space looking for a recruiter who genuinely ‘gets it’, I couldn’t recommend him more.

Anchal Thapar | Senior Privacy Counsel | Square Health

I have been both a candidate and client of Tom’s while he has been at Taylor Root. Tom is very personable, down to earth, efficient and understands the needs of his client. This is so important to ensure the right candidates are put forward and I think this is in large part due to his emotional intelligence and his excellent understanding of the data privacy world. Thank you Tom!

Joanne Kyle | Data Protection Compliance Manager | DMG

Working with Tom was an excellent experience. Thomas is professional and genuinely invested in understanding both candidate and client needs. Throughout the process, he communicated clearly, provided thoughtful support, and demonstrated strong understanding of the market. His made the entire experience smooth and enjoyable. I would recommend Tom to anyone seeking a new role either as candidate or recruitment.

Related content

Smiley person engaged with others around office

Legal readiness and enterprise value: what professional services firms must get right before investment or sale

  • Posted October 22, 2026
Contents Share Key insights Private equity investment continues to reshape the professional services market.   While much of the activity to date has focused on accountancy and financial advisory businesses, investors are increasingly looking at consulting, executive search, compliance, legal services and other specialist advisory firms. Recent transactions involving businesses such as Azets, Cooper Parry and […]
Businesswoman with diary and pen by colleagues

Why risk management skills are increasingly critical for legal professionals 

  • Posted October 22, 2026
Contents Share Key insights The role of in-house legal teams has evolved significantly in recent years. Legal professionals are not just expected to advise after an issue arises. They are increasingly asked to anticipate potential problems, assess their impact and help organizations mitigate business risk.  This is backed by the latest data from our 2026 […]
Group of happy entrepreneurs working on a meeting in the office.

Why lawyers are leaving law firms for in-house technology companies

  • Posted October 20, 2026
Contents Share Key insights The legal profession is experiencing a notable shift. Changing workplace culture, personal and professional goals, and the enticing growth of technology companies are driving a move from private practice to in-house.  While moving from private practice to in-house is not new, the pace at which lawyers are gravitating towards high-growth technology […]