Data is a valuable commodity in the digital economy, so demand is growing for competent privacy professionals who can safeguard it. But it can be difficult for organizations to identify candidates who are properly qualified for these complex roles, which require a solid understanding of technology, best practices, and the law.
The CIOSC’s Technical Committee on Privacy and Access Control has drafted a proposed national standard indicating core competencies required for privacy professionals. These cover a range of key areas, including information privacy, access to information, and data protection. The standard applies across public, private, and nonprofit organizations and will be equally relevant to all sectors of the economy.
Sharon Polsky, President of the Privacy and Access Council of Canada said that the standard will increase mobility and advancement opportunities for privacy professionals when it is published.
“The new competency standard will make it easier for employers to attract well-qualified data protection professionals; for post-secondary institutions to develop better training programs; and for people pursuing careers in data protection to know what they need to enter and advance in the profession,” Sharon said. “Being able to attract well-qualified privacy and data protection professionals will also support innovation that genuinely respects people’s privacy, which is vital for Canada’s economic recovery, growth, and stability.”
The draft of the proposed standard (CAN/CIOSC 109-1) is available here. Comments are welcomed until January 10.