Data Privacy Specialist (CIO-2026-209-LD)

At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, physicists and engineers are probing the fundamental structure of the universe. Using the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments, they study the basic constituents of matter - fundamental particles that are made to collide together at close to the speed of light. The process gives physicists clues about how particles interact, and provides insights into the fundamental laws of nature. 

Introduction

As a Data Privacy Specialist, you will join the Office of Data Privacy (ODP) in the Office of the CIO. ODP is CERN’s independent and impartial centre of expertise in the area of data privacy. You will report to the Data Privacy Advisor, CERN’s Data Protection Officer, and will advise CERN Management as well as Data Subjects and External Entities involved in the Processing of Personal Data, on all issues related to the Organization’s data privacy protection.

Functions

• Provide specialised legal and operational advice to ensure that CERN's processing of personal data complies with applicable data privacy protection requirements throughout the data lifecycle, including projects, contracts, risk assessments, data transfers, and data breach response, taking into account data protection implications of emerging technologies.
• Manage or contribute to projects in the privacy and data protection field involving internal and external stakeholders (e.g. international data-sharing initiatives).
• Advise on the relevant governance structures, policies, documentation, stakeholder engagement, and establish and maintain regulatory relationships necessary to support CERN's data privacy protection framework.
• Ensure the effective exercise of data subject rights and the prompt handling of grievances and complaints.
• Promote a strong culture of data privacy protection through communication, awareness campaigns, guidance materials, and targeted training for CERN personnel and stakeholders.
• Oversee the effectiveness of CERN's data privacy protection framework, identify improvement opportunities, and ensure ongoing alignment with evolving regulatory expectations and recognised best practices.

Master's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Law, Data Protection, Privacy, IT or a related field.

Holding a certification in the domain of data privacy protection (e.g. International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP), Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP)), or equivalent, or admission to the bar or equivalent legal qualification would be an asset.

Experience:

• You have proven data protection expertise and experience.
• You have extensive practical experience in data protection acquired at national or international level, in particular practical experience in applying data protection rules (preferably EU data protection framework).
• You preferably have experience working in an international environment and in dealing with EU actors and bodies or Inter-Governmental Organizations (IGOs).
• You will act with the required independence and impartiality.

Technical competencies:

• Knowledge of EU regulations.
• Knowledge of administrative rules and procedures.
• Drafting and writing of official documents.
• Stakeholder relationship management, in particular data protection commissions, communities of DPOs of other IGOs.
• Risks assessment for compliance and data protection purposes.
• Compliance auditing.

Behavioural competencies:

• Communicating Effectively: delivering presentations in a structured and clear way; adjusting style and content to the audience; responding calmly and confidently to questions.
• Achieving Results: having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind.
• Demonstrating Flexibility: being willing to work on different projects simultaneously.
• Demonstrating Accountability: maintaining confidentiality.

Language skills:

Spoken and written both English and French.

Eligibility and closing date:

Diversity has been an integral part of CERN's mission since its foundation and is an established value of the Organization. Employing a diverse workforce is central to our success. We welcome applications from all Member States and Associate Member States.

This vacancy will be filled as soon as possible, and applications should normally reach us no later than 09.11.2026 at 23:59 CET.

Employment Conditions

Contract type: Limited duration contract (5 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week

Job Flexibility: Hybrid

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: CIO-2026-209-LD

Field of work: Legal

Benchmark Job Title: Legal Adviser

Global Benefits

• A competitive salary (tax free), increasing in line with your years of relevant experience.
• 30 days of paid leave per year plus 2 weeks annual closure.
• Coverage by CERN’s comprehensive health insurance scheme (for yourself, your spouse and children), and membership of the CERN Pension Fund.
• Family, child and infant monthly allowances depending on your individual circumstances.
• A relocation package (installation grant, removal, travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
• Possibility to extend your contract up to 8 years + eligibility for indefinite contract tenure.

Overview of CERN - Discover a world where the impossible is made possible!

At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, we are pushing the frontiers of science and technology. Our groundbreaking work brings together not only physicists but also a diverse range of professionals from engineering, technical, scientific, and administrative fields. Together, we foster an environment where innovation and collaboration thrive.

Every day, we face exciting new challenges and opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research that shapes our understanding of the universe. We meet these challenges through the diverse perspectives within our teams, ensuring every contribution is valued and driving our shared sense of inclusion and purpose. Diversity is a core value of CERN since its foundation, and it remains central to our mission and continued success.

If you are ready to be part of a dynamic, inclusive community pushing the boundaries of knowledge, CERN is the place where your curiosity and skills can thrive. Be part of our mission to uncover what lies at the heart of the universe! TAKE PART!

More information about us, here: careers.cern