Auditing and Governance Risk and Compliance

Certified Data Protection Officer (CDPO)

This Certified Data Protection Officer (CDPO) course equips professionals with essential knowledge and skills to manage data protection compliance, implement privacy policies, and mitigate risks. Participants will learn to navigate legal frameworks and develop practical strategies for safeguarding personal data in their organisations.

5 days Classroom or live online English

Smart Horizon Certified - Global Leadership Consultants

Take the course details with you.

Download the full standard outline: why attend, methodology, objectives, audience, competencies, the daily outline and current plans.

Download course PDF

Why attend

From knowledge to real-world impact.

Data protection is a critical concern for organisations, especially with the rise of digital data and stringent regulations like GDPR. Professionals must grasp the complexities of data protection laws to ensure compliance and avoid significant penalties. This course addresses the pressing need for organisations to implement effective data protection strategies, enabling participants to confidently manage compliance tasks, conduct audits, and assess risks associated with personal data handling. Additionally, understanding the implications of data breaches and the importance of safeguarding sensitive information is vital for maintaining customer trust and organisational reputation.

Participants will engage in practical exercises that simulate real-world scenarios, such as conducting data protection impact assessments and responding to data breaches. By developing these capabilities, attendees will be prepared to fulfil the role of a Data Protection Officer, ensuring their organisation adheres to relevant regulations, builds trust with customers, and effectively communicates data protection policies across all levels of the organisation. This course will empower participants to make informed decisions regarding data management, implement robust data protection measures, and lead initiatives that promote a culture of privacy within their organisations.

Workplace challenges

Professional Problems This Course Is Designed to Solve

The programme explores practical approaches to the following challenges. Results depend on how the learning is applied in your organisation.

Difficulty translating subject knowledge into practical workplace decisions.
Inconsistent approaches to the activities covered in the course outline.
Lack of a structured plan for applying and reviewing new skills.

Course methodology

How you will learn.

The course employs a mix of case studies, interactive workshops, and practical simulations to reinforce learning. Participants will analyse real-world data breaches, engage in group discussions on compliance strategies, and complete hands-on exercises such as drafting data protection policies. Outputs will include a comprehensive data protection impact assessment and a tailored compliance strategy, ensuring participants can apply their knowledge effectively in their roles. Additionally, peer feedback will be integrated to enhance collaborative learning and understanding of diverse perspectives on data protection issues. This approach ensures that participants not only learn theoretical concepts but also gain practical skills applicable in their work environments.

Course objectives

What you'll take away.

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

Assess data protection laws and regulations relevant to their organisation's operations.
Design a data protection policy that meets compliance requirements and organisational needs.
Conduct a data protection impact assessment for a new project or initiative.
Evaluate the effectiveness of existing data protection measures and identify gaps.
Develop a response plan for potential data breaches, including notification procedures.
Justify the implementation of data protection training for staff and stakeholders.

Target audience

Who should attend.

This course is suitable for:

Data Protection Officers responsible for compliance and risk management.
Compliance officers seeking to enhance their data protection knowledge.
IT professionals involved in data security and privacy initiatives.
Legal advisors focusing on data protection law and regulations.

Target competencies

Capabilities you will build.

Participants will develop competencies in:

Conducting thorough data protection assessments and audits.
Implementing effective data protection policies and procedures.
Managing data breach response and notification processes.
Communicating data protection requirements to stakeholders.
Analysing and interpreting data protection legislation.
Fostering a culture of data protection awareness within the organisation.

Course outline

Your learning journey.

A focused, practical outline with time to explore, apply and reflect.

Day 1Introduction to Data Protection and Legal Frameworks

Applied activity: Participants will review a fictional organisation's data handling practices and identify compliance gaps against GDPR requirements. They will consider the implications of their findings and how to address these gaps effectively, presenting their recommendations to the group for discussion.

Output: A report outlining identified gaps and actionable recommendations for compliance.

09:00–09:54Overview of data protection principles and concepts relevant to GDPR and DPA 2018
09:54–10:48Key legislation: GDPR, DPA 2018, and other relevant laws impacting data protection
10:48–11:00Roles and responsibilities of a Data Protection Officer within an organisation
11:00–11:30Coffee break
11:30–12:12Roles and responsibilities of a Data Protection Officer within an organisation (continued)
12:12–13:06Understanding personal data and sensitive data categories, including examples
13:06–14:00Implications of non-compliance: penalties, reputational damage, and legal consequences

Day 2Developing Data Protection Policies and Procedures

Applied activity: Participants will draft a data protection policy for a fictional organisation, incorporating best practices, legal requirements, and specific organisational needs. They will also consider stakeholder input and operational feasibility to ensure the policy is practical and effective.

Output: A comprehensive data protection policy document that outlines compliance measures.

09:00–09:54Components of an effective data protection policy and its importance
09:54–10:48Best practices for data retention and minimisation in line with legal requirements
10:48–11:00Creating procedures for data subject rights requests, including access and erasure
11:00–11:30Coffee break
11:30–12:12Creating procedures for data subject rights requests, including access and erasure (continued)
12:12–13:06Establishing data processing agreements with third parties to ensure compliance
13:06–14:00Implementing data protection by design and by default in projects

Day 3Conducting Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs)

Applied activity: Participants will conduct a DPIA for a new project involving personal data processing. They will identify risks and propose mitigation measures based on established guidelines and organisational context, ensuring thorough documentation of their findings and recommendations.

Output: A completed DPIA report with risk assessment, mitigation strategies, and compliance recommendations.

09:00–09:54Purpose and importance of DPIAs in identifying risks to personal data
09:54–10:48Steps to conduct a DPIA, including stakeholder engagement and documentation
10:48–11:00Identifying risks and mitigation strategies throughout the DPIA process
11:00–11:30Coffee break
11:30–12:12Identifying risks and mitigation strategies throughout the DPIA process (continued)
12:12–13:06Engaging stakeholders in the DPIA process to ensure comprehensive assessment
13:06–14:00Documenting and reporting DPIA findings for compliance and accountability

Day 4Data Breach Management and Response Planning

Applied activity: Participants will create a data breach response plan for a fictional scenario, detailing notification procedures, communication strategies, and mitigation steps. They will ensure that all legal obligations are met and that stakeholders are informed throughout the process.

Output: A comprehensive data breach response plan that outlines roles, responsibilities, and communication strategies.

09:00–09:54Understanding types of data breaches and their implications for organisations
09:54–10:48Legal obligations for breach notification under GDPR and DPA 2018
10:48–11:00Developing an incident response plan that outlines roles and responsibilities
11:00–11:30Coffee break
11:30–12:12Developing an incident response plan that outlines roles and responsibilities (continued)
12:12–13:06Communicating with stakeholders during a breach, including customers and regulators
13:06–14:00Post-breach analysis and lessons learned to improve future responses

Day 5Integrating Data Protection into Organisational Culture

Applied activity: Participants will design a data protection training programme for employees, outlining key topics, delivery methods, and assessment strategies. They will ensure the programme meets organisational needs and fosters a culture of compliance and awareness among staff.

Output: A detailed training programme outline that includes objectives, content, and evaluation methods.

09:00–09:54Importance of data protection training and awareness for all employees
09:54–10:48Strategies for fostering a data protection culture across the organisation
10:48–11:00Engaging employees in data protection initiatives through workshops and training
11:00–11:30Coffee break
11:30–12:12Engaging employees in data protection initiatives through workshops and training (continued)
12:12–13:06Monitoring and auditing data protection compliance regularly to ensure effectiveness
13:06–14:00Continuous improvement in data protection practices based on feedback and audits

The timings provided are estimates and may vary depending on the number of participants and the discussions taking place during the sessions. They are indicative only and do not constitute a binding commitment.

Dates & venues

Find a session that works for you.

Confirmed dates accept registration requests. Tentative dates are enquiry only.

Good to know

A few things to know.

How is the course delivered?

Our classroom programmes combine facilitated discussion, case studies, exercises and reflection. The precise format will be confirmed before enrolment.

Can you deliver this programme for our team?

Yes, you can enquire about a tailored programme. Share your goals, group size and preferred dates with our learning team.

Will I receive a certificate?

Participants who complete the programme receive a Smart Horizon UK certificate of attendance. Smart Horizon UK programmes are not externally accredited and do not award a professional qualification, licence or designation. Where a course title or outline refers to a professional certification (for example, AACE International's Certified Cost Professional), the programme supports learning and preparation only; the credential itself is awarded solely by the relevant professional body under its own application and examination requirements.

What should I confirm before booking travel?

Please confirm the session, exact venue, accessibility arrangements, fees and any visa requirements with the team before arranging travel. Tentative dates are not confirmed sessions.

Keep exploring

Your next horizon awaits.

All courses

The full course agenda and dates are available above. Use the session links in Dates & venues to choose a session. Registration and quotation forms require JavaScript; you can also contact our learning team directly.