The Government’s new International Data Transfers Expert Council

The International Data Transfers Expert Council is a subgroup of the National Data Strategy Forum, which was launched in May and held its first meeting in June.

As part of our ambitious, pro-growth National Data Strategy, the UK will work globally to remove unnecessary barriers to cross-border data flows. Doing so brings countless benefits for the economy and society. The free flow of data enables scientific researchers to better understand and diagnose rare genetic diseases; it ensures our money is kept safe by allowing financial institutions to monitor and detect fraudulent activity in real time; and it boosts UK businesses and consumers by delivering cheaper digital services and opening up overseas markets and supply chains.

To achieve our ambitions, the government is seeking the brightest and best minds from across the globe, with unique experience and expertise in this area, to become members of the International Data Transfers Expert Council.

The International Data Transfers Expert Council will consist of 15 leading individuals, drawn from academia, industry and civil society. The members will provide independent and expert advice, of both a technical and tactical nature, which will enable the government to deliver on its mission to champion the international flow of data.

The International Data Transfers Expert Council will play a vital role in the government’s work to forge strategic data partnerships with key economies worldwide.

Apply to become a member of the Expert Council

To apply to become a member of the Expert Council, please complete this application form. The deadline for applications is Sunday 12 September at 11.59pm BST.

Applicants will be assessed against the following criteria:

• Ability to provide independent, expert advice to the UK government on international data transfers policy
• Relevant experience working on one or more of the following areas or sectors: data transfers, data protection, international data policy, digital tech, trade, economic policy, law enforcement, national security, academia, science, health, finance or business
• Relevant experience working with, or expert knowledge of, specific countries (including the UK) and regions of strategic interest for the UK
• Global mindset, intercultural understanding, and experience working on international and diplomatic affairs

We will ensure that the membership is representative and diverse in terms of the sectors, geographies, perspectives, and sources of expertise which are represented. DCMS is committed to equality of opportunity and is committed to ensuring that we can better represent the views of the communities which we serve. We particularly encourage applicants from underrepresented groups, those based outside London and the South-East of England, and applicants who have achieved success through non-traditional educational routes.

Members will be expected to consistently attend and engage in meetings, which are expected to be held approximately every two months. Members will also be expected to sign non-disclosure agreements in the event that sensitive information is being discussed.

Please note that members will be selected from both this open recruitment call, as well as by direct invitation by the Secretary of State for Digital (also on the basis of the selection criteria listed above).

ENDS

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