Appointing an external Data Protection Officer (DPO) offers companies numerous benefits. These benefits can be significant on both a legal and operational level. The main benefits are described in detail below:
Professional expertise
An external DPO brings extensive knowledge and experience in the field of data protection law and data protection practice. This expertise enables him to provide companies with competent advice and ensure that all data protection requirements are met. Since data protection laws such as the GDPR are complex and constantly changing, it is an advantage to have an expert on board who is always up to date.
Independence and objectivity
An external DPO is independent and can therefore act objectively and impartially. This independence is particularly important to avoid conflicts of interest that could arise with internal data protection officers. An external DPO can advise the company neutrally and propose necessary measures without internal political considerations.
Resource efficiency
For many companies, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), it can be more resource-efficient to appoint an external DPO. The training and further education of an internal DPO and the provision of the necessary resources for their work can be costly and time-consuming. An external DPO can be deployed flexibly and according to needs, which increases efficiency and saves costs.
Reducing legal risks
Compliance with the GDPR and other data protection laws is essential for companies to minimize legal risks. Violations of data protection regulations can lead to significant fines and legal consequences. An external DPO ensures that the company complies with all legal requirements and thus reduces the risk of violations and resulting sanctions (Article 83 GDPR).
Access to specialised advice
External data protection officers provide specialized knowledge and advice tailored to the specific needs and challenges of the company. They can introduce best practices and proven procedures that have been successfully applied in different industries and companies. This allows the company to benefit from a wide range of experience and know-how.
Discharge of the management
The management of a company has numerous responsibilities and tasks. The appointment of an external DPO relieves the management of the complex task of ensuring data protection within the company. The external DPO assumes responsibility for monitoring and implementing data protection measures, allowing the management to concentrate on its core tasks.
Flexibility and scalability
An external DPO can be deployed flexibly and as needed. Companies can adapt the scope of services to their specific requirements, be it during periods of high workload or for special projects that require increased data protection attention. This flexibility enables companies to scale their data protection measures efficiently.
Training and awareness raising
An external DPO conducts training and awareness-raising activities for employees to raise awareness of data protection issues. Well-informed employees are an essential part of effective data protection management. Through regular training, the external DPO ensures that all employees are aware of and comply with the data protection policies and procedures (Article 39 paragraph 1 GDPR).
Strategic support
An external DPO can provide companies with strategic support by establishing data protection as an integral part of the company strategy. He helps develop and implement data protection strategies and concepts that will strengthen long-term data protection compliance and the trust of customers and business partners.
In summary, appointing an external data protection officer offers numerous advantages, ranging from technical expertise and independence to resource efficiency and strategic support. Companies benefit from competent and objective advice that helps them meet data protection requirements and minimize legal risks.
