Role Overview for VP, Data Privacy Officer with a Regional Bank – Philadelphia, PA
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a leading, community-focused regional bank in their search for a Vice President, Data Privacy Officer. Based in the vibrant heart of Philadelphia, PA, our client is a pillar of the financial community, renowned for its commitment to customer trust, technological innovation, and robust ethical governance. In an era where data is the most valuable asset and its protection is paramount, this role is not just a compliance function; it is a strategic leadership position critical to the bank’s continued success and reputation.
As the VP, Data Privacy Officer (DPO), you will be the principal architect and guardian of the bank’s data privacy framework. You will report directly to the Chief Compliance Officer and work closely with executive leadership, including the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), General Counsel, and Chief Technology Officer. Your mission will be to embed a ‘privacy-by-design’ culture across all facets of the organization, from new digital product development to marketing initiatives and third-party partnerships. You will be empowered to shape policy, drive strategy, and serve as the authoritative voice on all matters related to data privacy.
This is a unique opportunity for a seasoned privacy professional to make a tangible impact within a dynamic and growing financial institution. You will be responsible for navigating the complex and evolving landscape of federal and state privacy regulations, ensuring the bank not only meets its legal obligations but also exceeds customer expectations for privacy and data security. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker, a collaborative leader, and a subject matter expert who can translate intricate legal requirements into pragmatic, business-enabling solutions. If you are passionate about building and leading a best-in-class privacy program, we invite you to apply.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Data Privacy Officer with a Regional Bank – Philadelphia, PA
Privacy Program Development and Management
Spearhead the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of the enterprise-wide data privacy program. This includes developing a strategic roadmap, establishing governance structures, and ensuring the program aligns with the bank’s business objectives and risk appetite.
Regulatory Compliance and Monitoring
Serve as the primary expert on data privacy laws and regulations affecting the banking industry, including the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA), the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA/CPRA), and other emerging state-level privacy laws. Proactively monitor legislative changes and regulatory guidance to ensure the bank’s ongoing compliance.
Policy and Procedure Governance
Draft, review, and maintain a comprehensive suite of privacy-related policies, standards, procedures, and notices (e.g., Privacy Policy, Data Retention Policy, Incident Response Plan). Ensure these documents are clear, practical, and effectively communicated across the organization.
Privacy Impact Assessments (PIAs & DPIAs)
Lead and formalize the process for conducting Privacy Impact Assessments and Data Protection Impact Assessments for new and existing products, services, systems, and vendors. Identify potential privacy risks and recommend effective mitigation strategies.
Data Breach and Incident Response
Play a critical leadership role in the data incident response team. Manage the privacy aspects of security incidents, including conducting investigations, assessing notification obligations, and coordinating with legal, IT, and communications teams to ensure a timely and compliant response.
Training and Awareness
Develop and deliver engaging and role-specific data privacy training and awareness campaigns for all employees and contractors. Cultivate a strong culture of privacy and data responsibility throughout the bank, ensuring that data protection is a shared priority.
Data Subject Rights Management
Oversee and refine the processes for managing and responding to data subject access requests (DSARs), including requests for access, deletion, and correction of personal information, ensuring timely and compliant fulfillment.
Third-Party Risk Management
Collaborate with the vendor management office to assess and monitor the privacy risks associated with third-party service providers. Review and negotiate data protection terms in vendor contracts to ensure adequate safeguards are in place.
Executive and Board Reporting
Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to measure the effectiveness of the privacy program. Prepare and present regular, clear, and concise reports on the status of the program, key risks, and compliance posture to senior management and the Board of Directors.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Act as a strategic advisor to business units, including technology, marketing, product development, and human resources, providing guidance on privacy requirements and best practices to ensure ‘privacy-by-design’ principles are integrated into all business processes.
Requirements for the VP, Data Privacy Officer with a Regional Bank – Philadelphia, PA
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is required. A Juris Doctor (J.D.) or an advanced degree in a related field such as Information Systems or Business Administration is strongly preferred.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 10-12 years of professional experience in data privacy, with at least 5 years in a leadership or management role. Direct experience within the financial services or banking industry is essential.
Expert Knowledge of Regulations
Deep, demonstrable expertise in U.S. privacy laws and regulations, particularly the GLBA, Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), CCPA/CPRA, and various state data breach notification laws. Familiarity with international frameworks like GDPR is a significant plus.
Industry Certifications
Professional privacy certifications are highly desirable. Candidates holding certifications such as Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP/US, CIPP/E), Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM), or Certified Information Privacy Technologist (CIPT) from the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP) will be given strong preference.
Leadership and Influence
Proven ability to lead, influence, and build consensus across all levels of an organization without direct authority. Experience presenting complex topics to executive leadership and boards is required.
Strategic and Analytical Skills
Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills with a demonstrated ability to think strategically. Must be able to assess complex business and technology initiatives for privacy risks and provide practical, risk-based recommendations.
Communication Skills
Outstanding written and verbal communication skills. The ability to articulate complex legal and technical concepts to a variety of audiences, from engineers to executives, in a clear and compelling manner is critical.
Project Management
Strong project management skills with a proven track record of successfully leading and executing large-scale, cross-functional projects and initiatives.
Integrity and Professionalism
Must possess the highest level of integrity, ethical judgment, and professionalism. The ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion is paramount.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to investing in their employees and offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support your professional and personal well-being. This includes:
Competitive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary, annual performance-based bonus eligibility, and long-term incentive opportunities.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
A robust benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance with low employee premiums, a Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contributions, and comprehensive wellness programs.
Retirement Planning
A 401(k) retirement savings plan with a generous employer match to help you plan for your future.
Work-Life Balance
A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, paid company holidays, and support for flexible work arrangements to promote a healthy work-life integration.
Professional Development
A strong commitment to your growth, with a dedicated budget for professional certifications, industry conferences, seminars, and continuing education.
Employee Banking Perks
Access to exclusive employee banking benefits, including reduced rates on loans and mortgages, and premium account services.
Community Involvement
Paid time off for volunteering and company-sponsored opportunities to give back to the Philadelphia community.
How to Apply
If you are a visionary privacy leader ready to take on a challenging and rewarding role, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and your strategic vision for a data privacy program within a regional bank. JRG Partners is dedicated to connecting top-tier talent with exceptional opportunities.
To apply, please use the application link on this page. To learn more about similar roles and our expertise in this field, explore more opportunities in our Legal and Compliance Practice.
