Assistant Assurance Officer

Full time | Civic Recruitment Limited | United Kingdom

Posted On 02/03/2026

City Walsall

Province West Midlands

Postal Code WS1

Role Purpose

The Assurance Assistant Officer will support the Assurance function in clearing the backlog of Subject Access Requests (SAR) and Freedom of Information (FOI) requests. The post holder will be responsible for reviewing, redacting, and preparing records for quality assurance prior to disclosure, ensuring full compliance with data protection legislation and FOI requirements.

This role requires demonstrable experience in data protection, particularly in relation to Subject Access Requests and Freedom of Information requests, to ensure appropriate application of exemptions and lawful red actions.

Review and assess records identified for disclosure under SAR and/or FOI requests.

Apply appropriate exemptions under data protection and FOI legislation.

Redact sensitive, personal, and third-party information accurately and consistently.

Ensure all disclosures comply with relevant legislation including the UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018 (or relevant local legislation).

Prepare documentation for internal quality assurance checks prior to release.

Maintain accurate records of decisions, red actions, and applied exemptions.

Support the reduction of SAR/FOI backlog within agreed time frames.

Liaise with internal departments to retrieve and clarify requested information.

Escalate complex cases or risks to the Assurance Manager.

Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion at all times.

Proven experience handling Subject Access Requests (SAR) and/or Freedom of Information (FOI) requests.

Strong working knowledge of data protection legislation and FOI legislation.

Demonstrable experience applying appropriate exemptions and red actions.

Experience reviewing large volumes of documentation with high attention to detail.

Ability to interpret and apply legislation in practical scenarios.

Strong organisational skills and ability to manage competing priorities.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Ability to work independently and meet strict statutory deadlines.