Meet Seán Hurley, Senior Regulatory Lawyer in the Data Protection Commission

The Role

A Legal Analyst has a key role in what is one of Europe’s most prominent and active data protection regulators, with opportunities to contribute to the DPC’s extensive work at national level, as well as the high-profile and unique role it holds in the supervision of large international organisations based in Ireland. The role, equivalent to that of a legal researcher, involves legal research and analysis and the provision of legal support across a broad range of the DPC’s activities. As a result, Legal Analysts are involved in a diverse array of substantive data protection issues as well as novel legal and regulatory matters. 

Seán Hurley

I would highly recommend applying for a position as a Legal Analyst in the DPC.

I started work as a Legal Analyst in the DPC in July 2021 in the Decisions and Corrective Powers Unit. As a Legal Analyst in the DPC, I had the opportunity to work on progressing large-scale domestic and cross-border inquiries relating to sophisticated entities.

As a Legal Analyst, I frequently engaged with novel legal issues which are at the cutting edge of European data protection law. The DPC is an exciting place to work considering its role at the forefront of enforcing Europe’s flagship data protection law – the GDPR. Looking back on my time as a Legal Analyst, one of the benefits the role provided me with, was to obtain a deep expertise in how EU and administrative law operates in practice.

I also gained experience in engaging with external stakeholders during my time as a Legal Analyst. The DPC encourages Legal Analysts to volunteer to engage in external speaking events. I had the opportunity to represent the office at a number of prominent events and to engage with some of the leading policy makers and experts in the area of data protection law.

The DPC provides excellent opportunities for continuous professional development. During my time as a Legal Analyst, I completed the Barrister at Law degree in the King’s Inns and the DPC provided support through the refund of fees scheme and by offering generous study leave.

Following completion of the course in July 2022, I was promoted to the position of a Senior Regulatory Lawyer in the DPC.

Overall, I would highly recommend applying for a role as a Legal Analyst in the DPC. There are excellent opportunities for advancement and merit is always rewarded.