Get to know your Data Protection Ambassador in Surrey Clara Westbrook

Describe your current role/company:

I am a qualified solicitor and non-practicing barrister with 25 years’ experience in data protection and commercial law. I founded Westbrook Data Protection Services Ltd (WDPS) in 2015 which provides consultancy services such as audits and reviews, training, external Data Protection Officer support and commercial contract assistance. My focus is on helping clients navigate the complexities of data protection law and regulation, particularly around GDPR compliance and best data protection practices.

Previous roles:

Prior to WDPS, my roles include senior corporate counsel at Burberry, director of international data privacy at WarnerMedia, European data protection counsel at Yum! Brands, senior data protection counsel at Richemont and chief privacy officer at IMS Health. I was also honoured to win a scholarship from the Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn for a three-month stage at the European Court of Justice in Luxembourg.

During my career, I have advised businesses in digital, media, e-commerce, luxury goods, hospitality, finance, travel and aerospace. At the strategic level, I’ve helped organisations across different sectors implement data protection programmes from the development of policies and related processes and procedures to building data protection teams. My experience has equipped me with a deep understanding of the legal landscape and the ability to provide strategic insights that drive organisational success.

Other information:

I am on the IoD advisory panel advising members on data protection compliance. If you’d like to book a session with me, please email the advisory service at [email protected]

I am also the Ambassador for data protection of the Surrey and Berkshire branch, attending regular networking and other local events.

Outside work (hobbies/interests):

Outside of work I enjoy playing tennis at the weekends as well as exploring my passion for the Spanish culture.

How long have you been an IoD member?

I’ve been an IoD member since 2024 after learning about it through a friend the same year.

Describe your role as an Ambassador:

Data protection is crucial in today’s digital landscape and as an ambassador I’m passionate about encouraging organisations to embrace data protection. Tackling data protection compliance in a positive manner can bring real benefits to organisations, their customers and their staff.

What part of IoD membership do you value most?

The opportunity to build relationships is invaluable. My membership helps me to stay informed on best practices in governance and provides opportunities for professional development while allowing me to support fellow members in navigating the complexities of data protection.

What are the top three things about your branch area?

Surrey has very strong transport links to central London, is set in beautiful nature and provides a community feel.

If you could give one message to the Prime Minister, what would it be?

To listen to the people.

What are you most looking forward to in the next 12 months?

This year, I am celebrating 10 years in business and I look forward to celebrating this significant milestone throughout 2025 with the launch of my first online data protection training course, Data Protection Essentials and sponsoring a number of exciting events. A free trial is available at Westbrook Data Protection Training, wdpt.co.uk

Looking back, what advice would you give yourself when you started out in business?

Rome wasn’t built in a day and building a successful business takes time, effort and patience.