Job Description
Data Protection Officer
ABANS FINANCE PLC
Abans Finance PLC is a member of the prestigious Abans Group, a household name in Sri Lanka. With assets over Rs. 20 billion, we are one of the most innovative finance companies in Sri Lanka. The company’s principal lines of business include finance leasing, vehicle loans, mortgage loans, Gold Loans and acceptance of fixed and savings deposits. The company currently operates across the island and is further backed by over four hundred Abans PLC outlets island wide. The long-term credit rating of Abans Finance PLC is ‘A-(Ika)/ Stable by Fitch rating Lanka Limited which stands as a testament to the successful journey of the company and its strong backing of the parent company. Abans Finance PLC is seeking a dynamic, result-oriented individual to be a part of its' winning team.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Lead the implementation of data governance practices in compliance with the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA).
- Collaborate with cybersecurity and IT teams to embed strong data protection controls.
- Ensure adherence to all legal, regulatory, and risk management frameworks, including GRC.
- Oversee lawful use of personal data across business operations.
- Drive data anonymization initiatives to support ethical and secure analytics.
- Conduct risk assessments related to data loss and implement effective mitigation strategies.
- Promote a culture of secure and transparent data handling across departments.
- Act as the main liaison with the Data Protection Authority and other regulatory bodies.
KEY REQUIREMENTS
- Strong understanding of local regulatory compliance, including CBSL and government regulations.
- Proven experience in data protection, legal compliance, information security, governance, and risk assessment.
- Comfortable working cross-functionally with Legal, IT, Compliance, and Analytics teams.
- A degree from a recognized university or a full professional qualification in Finance or IT (required).
- A Master’s degree in a relevant field (Banking, Finance, IT, Business) is an advantage.
- Recognized certifications in Data Protection (e.g., CIPPE, CIP, CIPM, Information Security, or GRC are a plus.)
- At least 3 years of experience with a focus on data privacy, preferably within financial services or a related industry.
- Experience engaging with regulatory authorities is preferred.
The above positions offer excellent career prospects and opportunities for further progression together with internal & external training. An attractive negotiable remuneration package in keeping with experience and industry norms is on offer.
Please forward your resume to careers@abansfinance.lk or by post to Head of Human Resources, Abans Finance PLC, No 456, R. A. De Mel Mawatha, Colombo 03 with contact details of two non-related referees indicating the post applied for in the subject line within 14 days of this advertisement.