Who holds the responsibility for ensuring compliance with GDPR?

The data protection officer (DPO) is primarily responsible for ensuring compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). This role involves overseeing the organization's data protection strategy and its implementation to ensure compliance with GDPR requirements. The DPO serves as a point of contact between the organization and regulatory authorities, as well as a resource for employees regarding data protection practices.

The DPO's responsibilities can include conducting audits, providing training, developing privacy policies, and ensuring that data processing activities are aligned with GDPR guidelines. This person must have a thorough understanding of data protection laws and practices to effectively oversee and advocate for compliance across the organization.

While other roles within an organization, such as the marketing team, IT department, and business owners, play important parts in supporting data protection activities, the DPO is specifically designated to handle compliance and serve as an authority on GDPR matters. This clear delineation of responsibilities underscores the critical nature of the DPO's role in maintaining regulatory compliance and protecting individuals' data rights.