Data Privacy Consultant 171 views

Please list any preferences that will help identify the best candidates here: Gambian citizenship or have a residence permit for The Gambia.

Summary

Democracy International (DI) is seeking a Human Rights Data Security and Privacy Consultant for its EU-funded Nextgen Peacemakers activity to strengthen sustainable, in-country capacities for effective conflict management and peacebuilding in The Gambia. The goal of this project is to empower young women and men as positive agents of change for peace in their communities and in the public arena by building youth skills and assets, creating opportunities for meaningful youth engagement in policy and politics, and supporting youth and government alike to navigate a complex social, cultural, and political environment. A component of this project is DI’s provision of technical assistance through its local and international network of experts in peacebuilding and politics to augment the approach of grantees and their partners. In this regard, DI seeks the services of a Data Security and Privacy Consultant to oversee training on secure data handling for grantees and transitional justice bodies. The objective of this training is to build the skills of staff to ensure compliance with data protection standards, preserve institutional integrity, and safeguard the trust and psychological safety of the vulnerable individuals served by these organisations.

The performance period for this consultancy is up to 10 days with a potential extension based on assessment findings. Based on an evaluation of the qualifications of applicants, DI may elect to award up to two consultancies to cover the SOW, such as a local trainer combined with an international expert or a data security expert and a legal expert. 

Objectives

This Consultancy aims to deliver comprehensive capacity building training on secure data handling, evidence integrity and trauma informed data governance for the beneficiaries. Specifically, the training will:

• Prevent re-traumatisation by training personnel on handling victim testimonies and medical histories securely to prevent leaks and mitigate psychological harm and stigmatization.
• Ensure legal and institutional compliance by aligning internal procedures with national data governance expectations and international human rights data privacy standards.
• Support evidence integrity by establishing strict access controls, audit practices, and anti-tampering measures to ensure evidence for victim-centered processes remain transparent, untampered and legal sound.
• Mitigate socio-digital risks by addressing operational vulnerabilities associated with social media, messaging platforms (e.g. WhatsApp audio/document sharing) and mobile devices. 
• Focus training content on low and no-cost solutions, particularly to build the skills of young people and new staff, while contributing to overarching organizational needs. 

Scope of Work

To meet the objectives of this consultancy, the consultant is expected to:

• Conduct a rapid needs assessment to review current data handling workflows, internal policies and operational practices within the beneficiary institutions (1-3 entities).
• Conduct an inception briefing to engage the beneficiary institutions to finalise training goals and schedule.
• Design tailored training modules and interactive tools covering issues identified during the needs assessment and inception briefing focused, drawing on Gambian law, international law, and global good practice. 
• Facilitate an interactive training workshop based on the training modules for staff of host institutions and other interests parties.
• Prepare a comprehensive post-training report highlighting key findings, evaluation outcomes, and practical recommendations for institutional policy adjustments.
• Produce a user-friendly compliance checklist for daily secure data handling.

Deliverables

The Consultant is expected to provide the following deliverables:

• Inception report showcasing workplan and methodology;
• Report detailing the results of the needs assessment and inception briefing with the beneficiaries;
• Successful facilitation of the training workshop; and
• Produce a final consultancy report detailing participant feedback, knowledge gaps, opportunities, and a user-friendly compliance checklist for daily secure data handling. 

Qualifications

Required

• Advanced Degree (master’s or equivalent) in Law, Information Security, Data Protection, or related fields, or professional certifications (CIPP/E, CISS/P, CISM, or Certified Data Protection Officer) with a focus on data privacy and information governance
• At least 5 years of professional experience in data governance, human rights documentation, or information security within statutory bodies, human rights organisations, or transitional justice mechanisms
• Strong understanding of the socio-digital landscape in The Gambia (including common breach vectors via WhatsApp and social media) and applicable legal frameworks
• Strong written and oral communication skills in English

Preferred

• Gambian citizenship or current residency in The Gambia

• Proven track record in handling sensitive human rights documentation, witness testimonies, and other confidential information
• Knowledge of legal evidentiary standards, chain of custody, and anti-tampering measures 
• Experience working with or in civil society, government, or community organizations in The Gambia
• Strong research, analysis, or data management skills

How to Apply

Send a CV and cover letter to gambia@democracyinternational.com by Wednesday October 7^th, 2026. Use the exact role title as your email subject line.

About the Organization

DI provides technical assistance, analytical services and project implementation for democracy, human rights, governance and conflict mitigation programs worldwide. Since its founding in 2003, Democracy International has worked with civil society organizations, political parties, election-management bodies, government agencies, legislatures, justice-sector institutions, and others in 70+ countries.

DI welcomes and supports a diverse and inclusive work environment. We are committed to equal employment opportunities (EEO) for all applicants seeking employment and for DI employees. DI makes employment decisions based on organizational needs, job requirements and individual qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, personal appearance, military status, gender identity or expression, genetic information, political affiliation, educational status, unemployment status, place of residence or business, source of income, or reproductive health decision making. Additionally, harassment or discrimination based on these characteristics will not be tolerated at DI. To perform the essential functions of this position, reasonable accommodations are available to qualified individuals with disabilities.