The digitization of businesses across global industries has driven the data-fication of all information, and the sensitivity of this information has driven the need for adequate security measures that need incorporation at all levels. In 2016, the EU adopted the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the enforcement of which falls under the purview of Data Protection Officers or DPOs.

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What is the role of a DPO?

A Data Protection Officer (DPO) oversees the application of data privacy and protection policies of the company. They are primarily responsible for fostering a data protection culture and enterprise-wide compliance with all relevant regulations. The demand for this niche segment has seen a meteoric rise post-pandemic. Several companies with existing robust privacy departments are investing in customer-centricity by safeguarding their data.

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“The percentage of organizations saying they receive significant business benefits from privacy (e.g., operational efficiency, agility, and innovation) has grown to over 70%.” ~ Cisco Data Privacy Benchmark Study 2020   

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Evolution of cyber security in businesses

In the early 2000s, cyber security was considered a fringe element in business. However, it started gaining prominence as information security became a sensitive function globally. Data protection and privacy have gained the spotlight as digital transformation accelerated in business enterprises. This change is leading enterprises to get familiar with the various nuances of robust data protection practices. As a relatively new niche, the data protection domain is dynamic as countries worldwide constantly review their present rules and regulations and devise legally tenable solutions. 

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The ever-evolving nature of data protection and safety has garnered strong interest among focus groups and domain experts to discuss and share their knowledge and experience in relevant platforms. At the same time, top leaders in various industries have become emphatic about the importance of data protection regulations which drives them to seek out individuals with expertise and experience. Herein come the DPOs, who have unique experience and knowledge of the information security and compliance rules. The DPOs are at the forefront of making organizations more robust in data protection and legal mandates governing the same.

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The unique position of DPOs 

As direct advisors to top leadership in the domain, DPOs can address the top management regularly. At the same time, they are duty-bound to sensitize the rest of the industry to the various facets of Information Security and Safeguards. They can do this by engaging their audience on digital platforms like social media posts, blogs on relevant websites, and articles in e-magazines. The present trend of information assimilation through social networks mandates that DPOs should leverage such a potent marketing tool as well, the accrued benefits of which will include the following: 

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1. Brand Visibility: DPOs can share their unique experiences and success stories in professional network platforms which will reflect on the culture of what their company brand represents that implements data protection as a vital function. In a study of a thousand customers in the UK, 62% responded that they felt more confident sharing their data with GDPR-compliant businesses.  
2. Increased Traction: Highly insightful and compelling content will draw traction from industry partners looking for similar solutions while boosting the confidence of present clients concerning their data security.
3. Deal Clincher: When enterprises operate digitally without the restrictions of geographical borders, a consistent buzz around data protection and compliance to cross-border data transfer standards will enable new clients to onboard with a reasonable surety.
4. Positioning and Visibility: The more DPOs engage in social media, their exposure to various nuances of data protection increases. They also establish authority as industry experts whom people will connect with for meaningful conversations. Their expertise also places them as strategic advisors to the CEOs. As a result, this gives them an elevated platform in their enterprise.
5. Data Protection Evangelist: Organic and high-quality content on social media profiles by DPOs will help sensitize the rest of the business functions about several rules and regulations that require compliance and will make their standing prominent in a large enterprise.
6. Thought Leadership: DPOs are in an envious position to become thought leaders in data protection because of their unique experience and deep understanding of the subject. They can not only talk about the present-day challenges but also comment on the future and anticipate the necessary organizational changes. The immense value of their stories will elevate them to become thought leaders while also getting the due attention of top leadership towards such an essential aspect of today's business. 

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The future 

Data Protection and Information Security will continue to gain prominence in the digital conduct of businesses. The role and demand for professionals in these fields will continue to increase. And therefore, DPOs can effectively leverage social media platforms to represent better their expertise and experience, which will impact the brand they represent and establish them as SMEs in a niche domain. Their expertise will widen their network of meaningful connections in professional platforms, giving them the impetus to emerge as thought leaders who drive a culture of information and data security.