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Aneta Podsiadla
Data Protection & Compliance Officer
Professional Background
Aneta Podsiadla is an accomplished Data Protection & Compliance Officer with an impressive 13 years of multi-sectoral experience spanning finance, IT, consumer goods, and pharmaceuticals. With a strong foundation in data protection, information security, and IT law, Aneta has developed an extensive expertise that covers 46 countries and counting. A recognized expert in her field, Aneta is dedicated to building and maintaining robust data protection programs, effectively supporting organizations during significant business transformations and IT projects. Aneta is instrumental in developing data protection-compliant online platforms, web-shops, mobile applications, and internet-connected devices, ensuring that companies remain compliant in an ever-evolving regulatory landscape.
As a thought leader in data protection, Aneta has led several initiatives for the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP). Her involvement includes serving as a former member of the European Advisory Board and co-chairing the Swiss KnowledgeNet. Aneta’s contributions to the IAPP reflect her deep commitment to enhancing privacy and data protection standards across various sectors.
Aneta has also been a prominent speaker at numerous industry conferences, where her insights and expertise shine. She has presented at notable events such as PrivSec Global 2021, ISACA EuroCACS 2019, and the IAPP European Data Protection Congress in 2017 and 2018. Her speaking engagements also include the We Robot 2013 conference held at Stanford Law School and the Cloud Computing Summit London in 2012, among others. Aneta’s presentations engage audiences while illuminating the critical importance of data protection in a digitized world.
In addition to her current role, Aneta has further distinguished herself as a former expert in the European Commission’s Policy Expert Groups. Her contributions include working on issues surrounding Cloud Computing, the Internet of Things, Data Retention, Smart Metering, and participating in the European Private-Public Partnership for Resilience led by ENISA. Aneta has also served as a key expert in the EuroPriSe (European Privacy Seal) certification body for IT products and IT-based services.
Education and Achievements
Aneta Podsiadla's academic credentials are as impressive as her professional accomplishments. She embarked on her educational journey by obtaining a Master’s degree from Nicolaus Copernicus University. She further pursued advanced studies at the same university to earn a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), deepening her understanding of law and international business transactions.
Continuing her pursuit of knowledge, Aneta further enhanced her qualifications with a Postgraduate Degree from Uczelnia Łazarskiego w Warszawie, and obtained multiple diplomas from prestigious institutions such as the University of Cambridge and The Catholic University of America, Columbus School of Law. Furthermore, she broadened her academic horizons and expertise in European studies by completing studies at the Jean Monnet Centre for European Studies. Aneta's dedication to education underscores her commitment to staying ahead in the complex and rapidly changing field of data protection.
Throughout her career, Aneta has held various roles in esteemed organizations, which have contributed significantly to her wealth of experience. She currently serves as the Data Protection & Compliance Officer at Vorwerk Group, where she leads the effort to integrate data protection into their business operations. Before this role, Aneta was a Manager at PwC Switzerland, where she played a crucial part in advising clients on data protection and compliance matters. Her past positions also include serving as Legal Counsel for IT and Data Protection at Zurich Insurance Company Ltd, contributing her legal expertise to ensure compliance in a highly regulated environment.
Notable Contributions
Aneta Podsiadla is known for her significant contributions and achievements in the world of data protection. As an influential figure in the IAPP, she has not only served on the European Advisory Board but has also contributed to the development of the Certification in Privacy Management (CIPM) Exam as an Exam Development Board member. Her leadership in the Swiss KnowledgeNet has further solidified her reputation as a prominent advocate for privacy protection.
Moreover, Aneta has an impressive track record as a consultant, having previously held a senior consultant position in IT Advisory at KPMG Switzerland. Her experience spans various sectors and jurisdictions, cementing her status as a well-rounded expert. She has also helped facilitate the development of data protection strategies and compliance frameworks for organizations that are navigating changes brought about by technological innovations.
Her engagement with the European Commission, where she worked on various expert groups related to data policy, exemplifies her commitment to shaping the future of data protection legislation. Aneta's involvement in initiatives like the European Private-Public Partnership for Resilience highlights her dedication to fostering collaboration between public and private entities.
In addition to her professional roles, Aneta has also served as a Fulbright Visiting Researcher at the Center for Information Technology & Privacy Law at The John Marshall Law School. This experience has enriched her understanding of the intersections between technology, law, and privacy, enabling her to provide comprehensive insights into data protection practices.
Aneta’s career exemplifies a blend of strong legal knowledge, practical experience, and active advocacy in the data protection landscape. She continues to inspire and educate audiences on critical contemporary issues involving data privacy and compliance, carving a niche as a leading professional in this dynamic field.
