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Privacy and data protection recruitment

At Taylor Root, our data protection recruitment approach is built on legal and compliance expertise, global networks and an exceptional track record of delivery.

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Why data protection and privacy talent matters today

The need for experienced data protection, privacy and AI Governance professionals has never been greater.

With tightening regulations like the GDPR, CCPA, DUA Bill and evolving AI governance rules, organisations are under increasing pressure to manage how they collect, process, and protect personal data. Regulatory scrutiny, reputational risk, and customer trust are all on the line.

This has created unprecedented demand for professionals who not only understand data privacy laws but can apply them commercially across different sectors and geographies. As a leading data protection recruitment agency, we help employers navigate this complexity by providing access to top-tier data protection and privacy talent, whether for an urgent hire or a building a team long-term.

Why choose us?

Our dedicated data privacy recruitment consultants operate exclusively in this space. The team is made up of experienced privacy-specific recruiters who advise employers across the UK, Europe, the US, and beyond.

data protection Roles we recruit:

  • Data Protection Officer
  • Head of Data Privacy
  • Senior Privacy Counsel
  • Privacy Counsel
  • Senior Privacy Manager
  • Data Protection Manager
  • Privacy Manager
  • AI Governance Specialist
  • Head of Data Governance
  • Privacy Consultant
  • Data Protection Consultant

Whether you need someone to design your privacy framework, manage operations, or embed best practice across functions—we can help.

Data protection salary guide

Data protection salary guide 2025-2026

We are delighted to present the first edition of Taylor Root’s UK data
protection salary guide.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of current salary trends,
market insights and key considerations for hiring and retaining top data protection professionals.

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Industry expertise

Data protection recruitment in professional services

We work with global law firms, consultancy providers and advisory businesses to recruit DPOs, privacy counsels, and AI governance professionals. Our expertise in data protection recruitment gives us a unique edge when hiring privacy talent with regulatory depth and client-facing experience.

Data protection recruitment in financial services

From global banks to fintech start-ups, we support firms navigating complex regulatory frameworks such as the GDPR, PECR, and emerging AI regulations. Our placements span permanent DPOs, privacy counsels, interim privacy consultants and AI governance heads. 

Data protection recruitment in commerce and industry

We partner with employers across technology, healthcare, manufacturing, retail and media. We understand the value of embedded privacy functions that work closely with product, security, marketing and data teams. Our clients rely on us to find privacy talent that can influence across business units—not just sit in compliance.

Our Services

We recruit data protection roles across interim, permanent, and retained mandates—offering flexibility and speed. For clients who partner with us on an exclusive or retained basis, we provide a guaranteed delivery timeline, enhanced interview screening, and a tailored market report that benchmarks salary and candidate availability.

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Executive search

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Contingent recruitment

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Interim

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Strategic advisory

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What is a Data Protection Officer (DPO) and why do we need one?

A DPO helps ensure your organisation complies with privacy laws, mitigates risk, and embeds best practice into day-to-day data use. In many cases (under GDPR), appointing one is a legal requirement.

How long does it take to hire a DPO?

Senior permanent searches typically take 30 days from instruction to hire, depending on level and client schedule. Interim placements can often be completed within 1–2 weeks, again dependant on client availability to interview. 

Do you provide international data protection recruitment services?

Yes. Our team supports global hiring across the UK, Europe, the US, Middle East and Asia Pacific.

What types of organisations do you recruit data protection roles for?

We recruit across sectors including legal and professional services, financial services, healthcare, technology, consumer goods, and media.

How do you assess candidate expertise in data privacy regulations?

Our consultants bring specific privacy understanding to every brief and can run structured, competency-based interviews with tailored privacy scenarios. We also conduct in-depth referencing and market benchmarking.