About the Organization:
Safaricom Ethiopia is a leading technology company committed to transforming lives through digital connectivity and inclusive financial services. In less than four years, the company has grown to serve over 10 million customers, reaching 55% of Ethiopia’s population. Known for its innovative solutions, bold vision, and trusted partnerships, Safaricom Ethiopia is a key driver of the country’s digital transformation.
The organization fosters a dynamic, inclusive, and empowering workplace guided by values such as customer obsession, innovation, integrity, and collaboration. For two consecutive years, Safaricom Ethiopia has earned the Top Employer Award, demonstrating its commitment to employee development, mentorship, and diversity. Women and underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.
Job Description:
The Data Privacy Lead will oversee data protection compliance, engage with regulators, and promote a culture of data privacy across Safaricom Ethiopia. Reporting to the EHOD – Compliance, the role involves proactively monitoring data privacy compliance, advising on governance and processing activities, and managing data breaches. The position also ensures alignment with local and international data protection laws.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and deliver tailored data privacy and protection training campaigns and awareness sessions.
- Map and document data and information flows across products, processes, assets, services, and critical systems.
- Develop and implement high-risk frameworks, policies, procedures, and processes for managing data subjects’ information (customers, employees, candidates, suppliers).
- Execute GDPR compliance via Risk Control Matrix (RCM) and other frameworks.
- Support the business through Compliance Risk Management Plans (CRMP) to capture regulatory requirements.
- Consult with business units on data processing activities to ensure compliance with privacy laws.
- Conduct Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIA), Legitimate Interest Assessments (LIA), Human Impact Assessments (HIA), and Transfer Impact Assessments (TIA) to mitigate privacy risks.
- Manage and enforce Data Subject Requests (DSRs).
- Report program implementation progress to the Executive Committee.
- Collaborate with cybersecurity and technology teams to align with ISO27001 and other standards.
- Embed data protection clauses in vendor contracts (MPAs) and enforce Data Processing Agreements (DPAs) to manage outsourcing risks.
- Conduct third-party risk assessments.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Law, Information Management, Business, or IT Security from a recognized university.
- 5–7 years of experience in data protection, information management, data governance, or information security management.
Desired Qualifications:
- Master’s degree in Information Security, Law, or related fields.
- Certification in Compliance Management is advantageous.
Required Skills and Competencies:
- Strong knowledge of GDPR and local data protection legislation.
- Familiarity with information management, data governance, and data flow management.
- Knowledge of compliance management principles and good governance practices.
- Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and decision-making skills.
- Strong communication, interpersonal, and assertiveness skills.
- Integrity, attention to detail, and ability to manage sensitive information.
- Competency in presenting, reporting, planning, organizing, and applying expertise and technology.
Job Location:
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Employment Type and Salary:
- Full-time position.
- Competitive salary and benefits aligned with industry standards.
Professional Growth Opportunities:
- Opportunity to shape Safaricom Ethiopia’s data protection and privacy practices across all business functions.
- Work closely with regulatory bodies, technology, and cybersecurity teams to ensure compliance and operational excellence.
- Contribute to building a robust data privacy culture and protecting sensitive customer and organizational data.
Encouragement for Diversity:
Safaricom Ethiopia strongly encourages applications from women and underrepresented groups, offering a supportive, inclusive, and empowering environment for career growth.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should create or update their profile on the Safaricom Ethiopia recruitment portal and submit their application via the following link:
Apply Here
- Attach your resume; no scanned certificates or additional documents are required.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- Application Deadline: March 31, 2026.
Impact and Career Development:
As Data Privacy Lead, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring compliance with data protection laws, mitigating risks, and fostering a culture of privacy across the organization. This role provides exposure to regulatory engagement, cross-functional collaboration, and strategic policy development, enabling significant career growth within Safaricom Ethiopia and the broader telecommunications industry.