How do you become a data privacy consultant?

To embark on a career as a data privacy consultant, start by understanding why privacy is important in today's digital era and the fundamental principles that govern data protection, including: 1) Lawfulness, fairness, and transparency 2) Purpose limitation 3) Data minimization 4) Accuracy 5) Storage limitation 6) Integrity and confidentiality 7) Accountability Once you have a firm understanding of these principles, start learning about privacy laws and regulations that are relevant to you.

As someone who has very recently started with her career in data privacy and protection, I feel gaining a practical experience is probably the best way to get hold of the nuances, for instance working as an intern within the data privacy team gives you immense exposure from where you can work to have a solid foundation of the core concepts.

I got started by reading relevant piece of regulation applicable to my country of residence, I went further to take some free trainings online.

One of the best ways to acquire relevant skills is through online learning platforms such as Udemy and LinkedIn Learning, focusing on data privacy, information security, and related subjects. To gain practical experience, actively pursue opportunities and engage in hands-on projects, such as crafting privacy policies or implementing privacy technologies.

One of the keys to have credibility as a data privacy consultant is to have relevant skills which includes having certifications and experience of working with law firms/data privacy consultancies. The ability to analyze data, threats, conduct Privacy Impact Assessments (PIAs), provide necessary advisory and solutions makes the person well equipped to take up the challenges faced by privacy professionals.

In my experience, I was lucky to be hired directly into a privacy role with no prior experience as a graduate trainee. Getting an internship position is a great way to get some experience or volunteering with charity organisations who have a DPO.

I decided to go for the CIPM instead of the CIPP/E because it was a practical certification that demonstrated my understanding of privacy management and application in an organisation. The CIPP/E demonstrates understanding of the law. I took the exams 2 years into my career.

I attend in person Privacy and Risk events yearly to connect with other industry professional. I host webinars and publish articles on data protection. I keep my LinkedIn up to update. These actions builds my online presence.

Networking is an integral element when one tries to work in a legal-tech field. I remember, I was able to get hold of a data privacy traineeship through one of my connections, where I had the opportunity to work on GDPR and data protection laws in India.

Finally, I feel one needs to be committed to keep learning as data privacy is a developing niche and with increasing data breaches there are going to be several changes in the legal framework across countries and regions.