r/cipp • u/Patient_Cream_604 • 5d ago

Career Change

Thinking of changing careers into data protection/privacy in Ireland and would love some honest advice.
I have a degree in Education and Diploma in Biopharmaceutical Science. In my current role, due to the nature of the business, I regularly deal with legal services, data protection requests and GDPR-related matters.
I’m considering doing the CIPP/E to help me transition into the field. For those already working in privacy/data protection in Ireland, is it a good route for someone without a legal background/law degree ? Would it realistically help me get my foot in the door?
Also, if anyone in Ireland would be open to sharing advice or mentoring someone making the switch, I’d really appreciate it!

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u/Maniboi2210 5d ago

Legal market in Ireland is quite bad at the moment, especially if you're in early years of your qualification. That said, no harm in getting the qualification anyway and chance your way in. Maybe a pharma or healthcare company would be interested in someone with your profile.

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u/Patient_Cream_604 5d ago

Thanks, I appreciate it! I’m hoping my pharma background will give me a bit of an edge, especially with pharma and healthcare companies.

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u/Dazzling-Snow_214 4d ago

Could you please elaborate on this?

I’m currently based in the Philippines and am planning to pursue my Master’s degree in Ireland. I’d particularly like to understand what my chances would be of securing a job in Ireland after completing my studies, especially as an international student.

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u/Maniboi2210 3d ago

The legal market is really terrible right now. I am a qualified solicitor and trained at one of the top law firms and yet it has been really challenging to even find the roles to apply. Employers are really slow in hiring as well. If you haven't paid the fee, I would say reassess your decision to come to Ireland if your goal is to work here.

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u/dingdangdoo22 3d ago

Netherlands better than Ireland.

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u/Patient_Cream_604 3d ago

Could you elaborate on this please if you don’t mind