In this series, we introduce some of the people that make up Stephens Scown. We learn about their expertise, what drew them to join the legal profession and find out a little bit about who they are outside of the workplace.
Here we introduce Robert Brooks, Data Protection specialist.
Can you share with us a little bit about your role and a typical day?
I am lucky enough to have two roles at Stephens Scown. I am the Privacy Officer for the Firm which means my role consists of ensuring data protection compliance and keeping the Firm, my colleagues and clients data protected. I am also part of the Intellectual Property, Data Protection and Technology team providing advice and support to clients. The client facing aspect of my work is as varied as our clients are which is rewarding. Working as the Virtual Privacy Officer (VPO) for our clients means I get to become a part of our client’s team and work really closely with other groups, which is also very rewarding.
There is no such thing as a typical day.
Why did you specialise in (your area of) law?
The origin of my decision would be because it is futureproof. I had a previous career which was cut short and needed to find something new. I worked in London within finance and registrars, then jumped into digital marketing, both working with databases and compliance. Personal data is everywhere, and it is the life blood of modern living, the opportunity to work for Stephens Scown meant I could truly specialise and grow in this sector.
What do you love most about your role?
I really enjoy the problem-solving aspect of finding the practical implementation of the law.
How do you spend your time outside of work?
I enjoy the simple things. I like music and the arts, creativity of any sort really. Cooking and finding new wine to enjoy and share. I also enjoy being outside with nature and of course everything that Devon has to offer.
If you weren’t a lawyer, what you be and why?
I quite like the idea of being involved in town planning or something similar. More green spaces please!
What does it mean to work for Stephens Scown, what makes us different?
I’ve had as many guises as Mr Ben and worked in lots of different places. Stephens Scown is probably the first to truly make me feel part of something. It’s intangible, but it is definitely more than a job or a paycheque. In addition to this, I feel part of the community that I work in and part of the two counties in which we are based.