Principal Technology Advisor – AI Compliance

The Technology department is the ICO’s centre of technology policy, and technical expertise. It specialises in developing novel policy and regulatory interventions in relation to new and emerging technologies. The department’s work is high-impact, complex, and at the frontier of advanced technology and policy development.
The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) is the independent regulator of information rights. In a data-driven world, we provide advice, guidance, and support to organisations enabling compliance with their obligations, as well as protecting individuals and their personal data.
As an employer, we are passionate about making a positive difference to the lives and careers of our people, and we empower you to be curious, impactful, collaborative and respectful., We are recruiting a Principal Technology Advisor that will provide expert technical input in relation to Artificial Intelligence (AI) oversight, machine learning (ML) frameworks and data science techniques. The role will focus on compliance of such systems with data protection law.
You will have experience at the leading edge of developments in AI, machine learning and data science, and have a deep understanding of the broader legal and the societal consequences arising from the development and use of AI.
We are an influential digital regulator both internationally and domestically. In this role, you will contribute to shaping innovation and adoption in the AI space, while ensuring people’s rights and freedoms are protected., + Provide expert technical input concerning AI and machine learning frameworks and techniques into the ICO’s supervisory activities, based on a good understanding of data structures, data modelling and software architecture.
+ Forge collaborative, productive relationships with colleagues across the ICO, translating your technical insight into impact on the some of the most high-profile activities of the ICO.
+ Provide strategic advice to the Commissioner and his senior leadership team, including the delivery of timely and high-quality briefings.
+ Research, monitor and investigate the domain, keeping abreast of developments and their potential impact on information rights and the ICO.
+ Conduct complex technology analysis and provide in-depth advice.
+ Support the design and testing of the ICO’s digital forensics infrastructure to support data protection compliance in the AI market.
+ Represent the ICO in situations where complex technical knowledge concerning AI and machine learning is required, such as meeting senior technical representatives of AI developers, information rights interest groups and speaking at conferences.
+ Develop relationships with key actors and in the field and ensure the ICO has a credible voice in discussions concerning AI supervision. Leverage your own networks to extend the ICO reach and influence into expert networks within the AI practitioner, policy and research domain.

+ Have a good understanding of relevant legislation and political, social and legal as well as technological developments, that impact on data protection more broadly and in particular information rights.
+ Excellent communication skills, in particular the ability to convey complex ideas and concepts to a non-technical audience is necessary., + Substantial computer science, machine learning or data science experience, accumulated through any combination of academic or vocational qualifications or experience
+ Experience such as AI research and development, AI related testing, data science or AI engineering. More than two years of experience would be an advantage
+ Up-to-date expert knowledge of current trends and practices relating to the use and development of AI, machine learning frameworks and data science practices
+ A strong desire and aptitude to continually develop technical knowledge, skills and abilities as AI technology evolves
+ Excellent analytical and research skills demonstrating an ability to identify emerging AI technology trends, developments and issues
Essential criteria assessed during interview:
+ Up-to-date expert knowledge of current trends and practices relating to the use and development of AI, machine learning frameworks and data science practices
+ Interest and ability to translate and apply legislative requirements to the development and application of AI and machine learning technologies. Knowledge of data protection, AI governance, or associated legislation is not essential but will be an advantage
+ Strong interpersonal skills including the ability to build and maintain good working relationships, both internally and externally
+ Excellent verbal communication and presentation skills including the ability to explain technical matters to a non-technical audience
+ Ability to deal with a demanding workload which may include conflicting demands on time
+ Ability to travel to meetings and events in the UK and overseas (possibly outside office hours)

The ICO is committed to promoting and enhancing equality, diversity, and inclusion. We are focused on developing a workforce that is representative of the communities we serve and together we are building an inclusive workplace where all of our colleagues have the opportunity to make a real difference. We are championing this through our Equality Diversity and Inclusion Board together with a number of staff networks. Read more about our commitment on our website.

Salary: £62,793 pa, with potential for further progression to £70,907 pa with our pay progression scheme.
Location: Hybrid
Contracted to our Wilmslow, London, Edinburgh, Cardiff or Belfast office, however, we offer flexible home and office-based working opportunities. There will be times when you will be expected to attend the office to collaborate with colleagues or travel due to business need.
Why work for the ICO?
+ Pay progression scheme.
+ Hybrid and flexible working options.
+ 25 days paid holiday per year, plus privilege and public holidays.
+ Flexi leave (up to 26 additional days leave per year).
+ Pension (employer contribution around 28.9%).
+ Online discount scheme to save money at major supermarkets, retailers, gyms, restaurants, insurance providers and many more.
+ Health Cash Plan.
+ Fantastic development opportunities to learn and progress.
Further details can be found on the benefits section of our website ., Alongside your salary of £62,793, Information Commissioner's Office contributes £18,191 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Find out what benefits a Civil Service Pension provides., Candidates with a disability who meet the minimum criteria for this vacancy will be invited to interview as part of the ICO’s commitment to the Disability Confident Scheme.