States of Guernsey confirm appointment of new Data Protection Authority members

The Bailiwick of Guernsey’s government, the States of Deliberation, have confirmed the appointment of Nicola Wood and Dr Jane Wonnacott to the Data Protection Authority from 26th May. The Authority is an independent board responsible for the development and implementation of the regulatory regime necessary to oversee the local data protection law’s requirements, and provides governance to the Bailiwick of Guernsey’s Office of the Data Protection Authority (ODPA). 

Nicola has been appointed to the Authority for a 5-year term. She is the Senior Independent Director at the UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office. She has more than a decade’s experience of leading public sector boards and is a former solicitor.
Nicola says: 

“I have a great affection for Guernsey and its people, I am therefore delighted to be able to bring my experience and skills to further the important work of the ODPA.”

Dr Jane Wonnacott has been appointed to the Authority for a 4-year term. She is an information technology specialist with extensive experience of working with data from a technical perspective. 

Her career, which has taken her to the UK, USA and Europe, includes roles in medical research and pharmaceuticals, consultancy for Fortune 500 companies and over 14 years as Director of IT for the States of Guernsey. 
Jane says: 

“I am thrilled to join the Data Protection Authority which plays such an important role in ensuring high standards of data protection in our community. I’m looking forward to bringing my experience and expertise to support the Authority in its mission to deliver effective and independent data protection regulation for Guernsey.”

Jane is also a non-executive director of two local charities, Guernsey Chest and Heart and Guernsey Disability Alliance.  

Nicola and Jane join existing board members John Curran, Christopher Docksey, Simon Entwisle, Mark Lempriere and chairman Richard Thomas CBE.

Mark and Christopher have both been re-appointed onto the board as voting members for up to four more years, after coming to the end of their existing term.

Mark has considerable experience strategically and operationally in the development, compliance and practical enforcement of statutory regimes including the implementation of new legislation and change management.

Based in Brussels, Christopher has extensive experience in the field of data protection, having worked as Director of the Office of the European Data Protection Supervisor and before that as the Legal Adviser on data protection to the European Commission. 

Jennifer Strachan is stepping down from the board having completed her four-year term.

Chairman Richard Thomas paid tribute to her contribution to the Data Protection Authority during the past few years:

“Special recognition is owed to Jennifer Strachan, whose term of office ends in May 2022. As a founding member, Jennifer has been a real tower of strength and inspiration. She has especially urged us to understand and respond to the needs of the all-important small business community. And she has shown the real fortitude and determination which is essential for the establishment of any new organisation.”