Privacy and Access Specialist

The department of Leadership Services is seeking a Privacy and Access Specialist to join their team. Successful candidate will be responsible for managing and ensuring compliance with access and privacy legislation within Edmonton Catholic Schools. This role involves processing information requests, developing and implementing privacy frameworks, and providing guidance and training to Division staff. By maintaining robust access and privacy practices and supporting records management, the Privacy and Access Specialist contributes to the Division's goal of safeguarding sensitive information and promoting transparency. Responsibilities Manage Information Request Process Assist requesters in applications for information access. Receive and process formal and informal access to information requests, collaborating with Division staff to retrieve records. Estimate and collect fees, and redact records based on privacy and access legislation. Maintain records relating to all access to information requests and consultations, including monitoring, tracking, and reporting. Respond to reviews from the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner (OIPC) and support General Counsel in responding to inquiries. Develop and Implement Privacy Framework Develop, maintain, and implement the Division’s privacy framework, including policies, procedures, guidelines, and standards. Provide privacy and access related advice to Division staff, including the development of forms, Privacy Impact Assessments (PIAs), risk assessments, and Information Sharing Agreements. Investigate and respond to privacy complaints in accordance with relevant legislation. Manage and coordinate activities relating to breaches, including conducting investigations and advising on breach-related queries in compliance with legislation. Provide Communication and Consultation Advise and/or develop strategies and/or frameworks for initiatives to ensure compliance with privacy and access legislation. Update and maintain access and privacy information on the Division website and the unit’s SharePoint site. Provide training and advice to Division staff on issues related to access to information activities, protection of privacy, and breaches. Advise and update the Chief Superintendent and General Counsel on a wide range of requests and issues. Provide consultation on software evaluations regarding privacy, access, and records management requirements. Support Records Management Assist the Records and Information Management Coordinator in the delivery of services, including the development and maintenance of records retention guidelines. Act as Records and Information Management Coordinator during absences. Contribute to the development of new policies and training associated with privacy, access, records, and information. Review and revise policies, procedures, and guidelines on an ongoing basis. Participate in Program Unit Activities Participate in unit meetings and activities and contribute to strategic planning. Assist unit staff during peak workloads and provide cover-off during absences. Collaborate on projects and initiatives and review best practices to enhance work efficiency and accuracy. Contribute to the development of new procedures. Qualifications Degree or diploma in an area related to Public Management, Public Administration, Information Management, Records Management, Business, Education, or a related field. Five years of experience is preferred. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered. Certification in Information Access and Protection of Privacy (IAPP) and Certification such as the Certified Information Professional (CIP) from the Association for Intelligent Information Management (AIIM) and/or the Certified Records Management (CRM) from the Association Records Management Administrators (ARMA) is preferred. Knowledge of privacy legislation (Alberta Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, Alberta Protection of Privacy Act, Alberta Access to Information Act). Knowledge of the Alberta Student Record Regulation and the Alberta Education Act. Knowledge of privacy management frameworks, information governance, and records management. Proficiency in reporting databases and Microsoft programs. Understanding of digital student records systems (PASI and PowerSchool). Understanding of project management principles. Understanding of presentation development and delivery techniques. Awareness of workplace safety and Occupational Health and Safety regulations. General knowledge of Division operations, goals, and objectives. Skills and Competencies Strong organizational and time management skills to balance competing priorities in a fast-paced environment. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to generate new ideas, initiatives, and approaches. Strong written and verbal communication skills, including technical writing. Strong presentation skills to deliver professional development sessions and training to Division staff. Strong leadership skills to coach, mentor, and guide Division staff effectively. Attention to detail and the ability to work with a high degree of precision. Ability to respond accurately and in a timely manner to privacy and access related questions and maintain confidentiality. Ability to convey complex information so that it is understood by a varied audience. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Ability to respond to changing circumstances and priorities with flexibility and resilience. Act with integrity with a commitment to ethical principles and maintaining confidentiality. Build emotional resilience, seek feedback, and develop soft skills to foster a collaborative environment. Ability to be a self-starter, independent thinker, and the ability to work under limited supervision. Ability to collaborate effectively in a team setting What we offer Make a real difference: Your expertise directly impacts the success of the division’s administrators, teachers, students, and parents. Be part of a dynamic team: Be part of a collaborative team that works with many diverse groups and builds meaningful connections. Continuous learning: Embrace new technologies and challenges, growing your technical skillset through provided training opportunities. 100% employer-paid benefits, including: Health, Vision, and Dental. A Health/Wellness Spending Account. EFAP – Employee and Family Assistance Program. Paid Time Off, including vacation time, personal days, and Christmas break. Additional Paid Time Off (PTO) – Personal Days. 7-hour workdays, 35 hours per week for a 1.0 FTE. Competitive salary and pension. #J-18808-Ljbffr