What does DPO outsourcing involve?
The service can take the form of ongoing support from a Grant Thornton data protection specialist in Poland, addressing day-to-day needs as they arise, or a comprehensive engagement in which we assume the role of Data Protection Officer and carry out all responsibilities reserved for the DPO function.
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Which organizations benefit from DPO outsourcing?
Our DPO outsourcing service is designed primarily for organizations in Poland that have already completed the process of implementing GDPR requirements and aligning their structures with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and applicable national legislation and now wish to entrust the ongoing management of this area to an external provider.
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Who uses DPO outsourcing services?
We support both organizations that are legally required to appoint a Data Protection Officer and those that are not, but nevertheless require professional guidance due to the nature of their operations and data processing activities.
Scope of support
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Dedicated, qualified personal data protection consultant
The service provides access to a dedicated consultant with extensive experience in personal data protection. As part of our organization, we also provide access to a qualified law firm. Our experts ensure continuous access to information on legal developments relevant to data processing activities.
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Taking over communications with individuals exercising their rights
This includes requests for access to data, data portability or erasure of personal data.
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Fulfillment of personal data controller obligations
This includes maintaining records of processing activities, updating information on data processing provided to data subjects, ongoing monitoring of processing activities, and periodic assessments of the risk of infringement of the rights and freedoms of data subjects.
Benefits of DPO outsourcing
- Direct access to highly qualified data protection experts who can fulfil your compliance obligations.
- Time savings by outsourcing GDPR-related responsibilities, without incurring the additional costs associated with recruiting or retraining in-house personnel.
- Enhanced organizational security through continuous monitoring of GDPR-related risks affecting employees, contractors, and business partners.
- A flexible service model that can evolve alongside your business.
- A proactive approach driven by continuous monitoring of regulatory developments, helping your organization adapt to new requirements before they become an issue.
Who should appoint a Data Protection Officer?
Under Article 37 of the GDPR, both controllers and processors may be required to appoint a Data Protection Officer, particularly where they are:
- Public authorities or public bodies
- Organizations whose core activities involve large-scale, regular and systematic monitoring of individuals
- Organizations whose core activities involve large-scale processing of special categories of personal data, including health-related information
In many organizations, appointing a DPO is beneficial even when it is not legally required. Factors such as organizational size, the volume of personal data processed, or the number of external processors involved often justify dedicated oversight. Corporate groups may also appoint a single DPO across multiple entities, improving efficiency and consistency in governance.
Why Grant Thornton?
Our approach is built on transparent communication and direct access to an experienced personal data protection consultant. When delivering DPO outsourcing services, we take over communications with data subjects and handle requests, complaints and inquiries on your behalf, ensuring professional and efficient management of all GDPR-related matters.
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30+ years
operating in Poland
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1,200+
employees across 8 offices
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2,500+
clients served annually
