Data protection authority appoints new chairperson

A woman who oversaw the transformation of UK data protection has been announced as Jersey's new data protection regulator.

The Jersey Data Protection Authority (JDPA) has appointed Elizabeth Denham as its new chairperson for a four year term beginning in October.

As the UK's Information Commissioner, Ms Denham oversaw the introduction of General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the UK Data Protection Act.

Ms Denham said she looked forward to "deepening" her involvement with Jersey.

She said: "My work will be guided by international trends alongside foundational principles such as transparency, accountability and fairness.”

The appointment comes after current chairperson Jacob Kohnstamm comes to the end of his term of office after six years.

Mr Kohnstamm said he was “immensely thankful and proud" to have led the JDPA and had "great reassurance" regarding his successor.

He said: "I am leaving the Authority and future of data protection and privacy in Jersey in the safest of hands for its onward journey and look forward to my handover to Elizabeth in the presence of international counterparts and colleagues as we host the 46th Global Privacy Assembly in Jersey this October.”

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