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About us

A message from our founder and CEOOur OfficesOur StaffCareers


A MESSAGE FROM OUR FOUNDER & CEO

At Achieved Compliance, we understand the critical role data plays in the success of your company. We believe good data governance is essential to your ability to make the most of that data – to create, to innovate, and to serve your customers.

We are also keenly aware that compliance with new data protection regimes is challenging, especially for mid-market companies that do not have specialized expertise in-house. Typically, companies of this size have time-constrained staffs which mean fewer resources are available to work on data protection compliance.

Achieved Compliance can help! Our mission is to help you establish good data governance and arrive at privacy outcomes that meet regulatory requirements, provide consumers with effective protections, and stay competitive in the marketplace. To achieve this, we provide flexible and easy-to-use software solutions that are designed for non-privacy professionals. Whether you are looking for help with data discovery or need a Virtual Protection Office – combined with our tools and client counseling services, we can help you remain competitive while meeting the challenges of responsible data practices.

Achieved Compliance is headquartered just outside of Washington DC, in Alexandria, Virginia. Achieved Compliance Advocacy Ltd.’s offices are strategically located in the UK and Amsterdam. Our staff has a combined 60 years of experience in data protection, and we are ready to help you establish good data governance.

MELISE BLAKESLEE, ESQ., CIPP/E

FREE CONSULTATION

our offices

US

Achieved Compliance Solutions

2000 Duke Street

Suite 300

Alexandria, VA 22314

DIRECTIONS

UK

Achieved Compliance Advocacy, Ltd

Princess House

Princess House Way

Swansea, UK SA1 3LW

DIRECTIONS

IE

Achieved Compliance Advocacy, Ltd

Block 1, Blanchardstown

Corporate Park, Ballycoolin Rd.

Dublin, Ireland D15 AKK1

DIRECTIONS

our staff

Melise Blakeslee

PRINCIPAL, PRESIDENT, CONSULTANT

Melise has over 20 years’ experience in commercializing and protecting data. She has advised numerous companies in technology and IP law as the founder of Sequel Technology Law, a Washington DC based law firm established in 2009. Previously, Melise served as the head of the Internet and IT-transactions group for the international law firm, McDermott Will & Emery. Her practice routinely involves counseling global companies, particularly in the financial and IT sectors, about data protection and compliance.

After years of counseling clients about data protection and commercialization Melise understood that small and mid-tier businesses required a compliance solution tailored to their unique needs. In Achieved Compliance, Melise seeks to empower companies with an in-house approach to compliance that is easy and cost-effective, and offers the high-quality advice, resources and guidance she provides to her clients.

Melise is a noted authority and speaker on protection of personal data and cybercrime. Oxford University Press published her first book on cybercrime, investigation and litigation in 2015.  Her second book on enforcing intellectual property and data rights, was published in April 2017 by Lexis Nexis.

PAULA BRUENING

PRINCIPAL; SENIOR DIRECTOR, GLOBAL PRIVACY POLICY

Paula brings 25 years of privacy and data protection policy development and representation expertise to her role at Achieved Compliance. Prior to coming to Achieved Compliance, Paula worked at Intel Corporation, where she was Director of Global Privacy Policy. There she developed and coordinated data protection policy across the company, focusing particularly on the European Union.

Prior to her tenure at Intel, she served as Vice President for Global Policy at the Centre for Information Policy Leadership at Hunton & Williams LLP, a pathfinding privacy and information policy think tank located in Washington, D.C. addressing cross-border data flows, emerging technologies, and cyber security issues. She was counsel for the Center for Democracy & Technology; Senior Attorney Advisor for the National Telecommunications and Information Administration of the Department of Commerce; and Senior Analyst for the U.S. Congress Office of Technology Assessment. Paula has extensive experience working on information policy issues in developing countries and with international organizations such as the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development and APEC. She is a graduate of John Carroll University and received her law degree from Case Western Reserve University.

Shawn Curtis

PRINCIPAL, LEGAL ADVISOR & IT CONTRACTING

Shawn brings a wealth of practical technology and management experience to Achieved Compliance. He has over 20 years of experience in programming and management with companies such as Wal-Mart, Inc., Dial Corp., WeightWatchers.com, Nike and many others. At Achieved Compliance, Shawn uses his knowledge of web development, cyber security, and data privacy to lead our company’s technology initiatives. In addition to his vast knowledge of business technologies, Shawn also has a Juris Doctorate from The George Washington University Law School and has practiced in technology law for many years.  Shawn provides our clients with practical and efficient guidance on all matters related to IT contracting and security arrangements.  

MARILYN LAMAR, ESQ.

CONSULTANT

Marilyn Lamar is an attorney, author, and speaker with more than 20 years of experience in corporate and information technology law including data privacy and security issues, data use agreements for multi-party databases, software development, and cloud computing services. Marilyn helps Achieved Compliance clients navigate the intersection between the GDPR and US laws governing the protection of health-related data.

Marilyn is the current President of the American Health Lawyers Association.

After a clerkship with the Seventh Circuit Court, Marilyn began her private practice career at McDermott Will & Emery LLP where she rose to the position of capital partner. During her tenure, she chaired the Health Law Information Technology practice group and co-chaired its HIPAA practice group. She also represented pharmaceutical, logistics, banking, and other clients in mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, reorganizations, software licensing, and regulatory matters.

Marilyn received a B.S. in Psychology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and a J.D. degree from the University of Chicago Law School.

MICHAEL SUTTON

Consultant

Michael Sutton brings over 15 years of international experience in creating business strategies and identifying and managing the integration of complex acquisitions and joint ventures to Achieved Compliance. He has led multiple project management teams implementing ERP systems and delivering the GDPR program for a US multinational over the years.

As the lead for the GDPR program development and roll out across the European business, Michael was involved with the following:

  • developing policies ensuring compliance with the GDPR including, but not limited to
  • Data Subject Access Requests (DSAR’s),
  • Erasure Requests, (Right to be Forgotten) and
  • Data Breach Management.
  • Embedding processes across the businesses including
  • Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIA)
  • Vendor Due Diligence
  • Review and sign-off of Data Processing Agreements (DPA’s)
  • Record of Processing Activity (ROPA)
LANRE OLUWATONA

PMP, FIP, CONSULTANT

Lanre Oluwatona is a data protection consultant, trainer, and data protection officer with over 25 years’ experience in IT compliance, change and project management and holds the following qualifications:

  • Fellow – International Association of Privacy Professionals.
  • Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP/E).
  • Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM).
  • Certified Information Privacy Technologist (CIPT).
  • European Certified Data Protection Officer (ECDPO).
  • Project Management Professional (PMP).
  • Risk Management – Management of Risks – Foundation (MOR).
  • Green Belt – Lean Six Sigma Business Process Improvement.

Lanre is currently the Data Protection Officer (DPO) for two National Hospitals in Dublin, Republic of Ireland and advises the Board of Research Ethics of both hospitals on data protection issues. He is familiar with data protection and privacy laws from multiple jurisdictions including the US (CCPA) Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa.

He previously worked at Hewlett Packard, Dell, the Irish Cancer Society, and the Irish Computer Society where he was responsible for the management and successful delivery of several medium to large-scale compliance and IT projects. During his time at the Irish Computer Society, Lanre designed and developed the European Certified Data Protection Officer training program, one of the leading data protection certification programs in Europe.

Terry Chapman

Consultant, CISSP

Terry Chapman is an IT and cybersecurity executive with over 35 years of experience building, operating and securing IT systems. During his career with the Wolseley PLC group, Terry has been a developer, managed operations teams, built and managed enterprise architecture teams, and created and managed cybersecurity programs. He has deep technical experience in Information Security Architecture, Networking, and Security Operations. He has extensive experience with security, privacy, and compliance Frameworks, such as NIST CSF, NIST 800-171, ISO 27001, PCI-DSS and GDPR.

Terry believes that a risk-based approach is required to create security programs that scale and are adaptable to changing conditions. He has successfully applied this approach with companies that range in size from 10 people to Fortune 100 companies.

Terry holds the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification.

Claire Grindey

Consultant

Claire Grindey lives in London and speaks French, Italian, Swedish and Dutch. She has 25 years of professional experience, with a focus on technology and strategic growth, and has consulted for PropTech and FinTech. Claire is a trained by the IAPP in data privacy.

careers

Join our dynamic team of global compliance professionals. Learn more about current openings below.
Please apply via application link with cover letter and detailed resume.

Data Privacy Programs Coordinator (Part-Time)

Achieved Compliance is a global data privacy and protection consultancy serving businesses of all sizes with expert guidance on GDPR, international privacy laws, and regulatory compliance. With offices in Northern Virginia, Richmond, and through our affiliates in the United Kingdom and the E.U., Achieved provides comprehensive privacy solutions that empower organizations to establish accountability-based data governance. We act as registered Data Protection Officers (DPOs) in approximately 50 jurisdictions worldwide—from Australia to Zimbabwe—providing on-the-ground representation and expert privacy management for our clients. Our specialty is serving the life sciences and health research sectors, as well as the industries that support them, including clinical trial organizations, academic medical centers, pharmaceutical companies, and healthcare technology providers. As an IAPP Silver Partner, our team combines deep technical expertise with practical, business-focused solutions.

summary

We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Data Privacy Programs Coordinator to join our team and support our growing privacy compliance practice. This unique role combines substantive privacy project work with client coordination and administrative support, offering an excellent opportunity for someone interested in building a career in the rapidly expanding field of data privacy and protection. The role will be part-time (20-25 hours per week) to begin, and to mature into a full-time role, or full-time for a qualified candidate. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working across both strategic privacy projects and day-to-day operational tasks, with strong technical skills and the ability to learn complex regulatory concepts. You will work directly with our privacy professionals and our clients, gaining hands-on experience with real-world privacy programs across multiple industries and jurisdictions. Location Note: We prefer candidates in the Northern Virginia or Richmond area who can come into our Richmond office periodically for initial training and team collaboration. However, we will consider remote arrangements for highly qualified candidates who demonstrate exceptional technical skills and self-direction.

Job Description

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES Substantive Privacy Projects (50% of role) Conduct data mapping exercises using established templates to identify data flows and processing activities across client organizations Complete and maintain mandatory records in compliance with GDPR and other global privacy frameworks Build and maintain an Airtable database tracking privacy laws and regulations across approximately 50 jurisdictions worldwide Research privacy requirements for specific jurisdictions and document findings for client deliverables Assist with privacy impact assessments and vendor risk assessments for life sciences clients Support preparation of privacy notices, policies, and documentation for DPO registration Track regulatory changes and updates affecting clients across multiple jurisdictions Project Management & Client Support (25% of role) Coordinate and track multiple client projects simultaneously across different jurisdictions and industry sectors Create and distribute client proposals, engagement materials, and project documentation Manage project timelines, deliverables, and status updates for privacy compliance initiatives Design and deploy client surveys and data collection tools using JotForm and similar platforms Prepare reports, presentations, and deliverables for clients in life sciences and health research Coordinate with clients on project requirements, updates, and compliance documentation Maintain organized project files and documentation systems Administrative Support (25% of role) Manage calendar scheduling and meeting coordination across multiple time zones Monitor and triage email communications from clients and regulators Draft and send professional client correspondence and status updates Organize and maintain digital filing systems for client documentation Handle meeting preparation, agenda creation, and follow-up action items Track deadlines and deliverables across multiple client engagements REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS Education & Experience Bachelor's degree in business, legal studies, information technology, or related field 1-2 years of experience in administrative, project coordination, paralegal, or similar professional role Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment Technical Skills Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel (formulas, data analysis, pivot tables) Experience with database tools such as Airtable, Access, or similar platforms, understanding of how to use AI to improve workflows Comfort learning new software tools including JotForm, project management platforms, and compliance systems. An understanding of how to use AI to aid in this process. Strong data organization, categorization, and spreadsheet management skills Ability to create surveys, forms, and data collection tools for client use Core Competencies Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy when working with complex regulatory information Strong written and verbal communication skills with professional business writing ability Excellent organizational and time management abilities Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining quality standards Professional client service orientation and collaborative team approach Strong research and analytical skills for understanding technical subject matter Comfort learning and working with complex, technical regulatory concepts PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS IAPP certification as a Certified Privacy Information Manager CIPM, or IAPP/EU, IAPP/US Previous exposure to legal, compliance, or regulatory work environments Paralegal certificate or legal assistant experience Basic understanding of data privacy concepts (GDPR, CCPA, HIPAA, etc.) Experience with data mapping or business process documentation Project management experience or certification (PMP, CAPM, etc.) Familiarity with privacy management platforms or compliance software Experience working in life sciences, healthcare, or research environments WHAT WE OFFER Professional Development Achieved will cover the cost of IAPP certification courses (CIPP/US, CIPP/E, or CIPM), subject to company policy Exposure to diverse clients across life sciences, health research, and supporting industries Direct mentorship from experienced privacy professionals and certified DPOs Opportunity to build specialized expertise in one of the fastest-growing professional fields Hands-on experience with international privacy regulations and DPO operations Work Environment Part-Time (20-25 hours per week) to begin, and to mature into a full-time role, or full-time for a qualified candidate Hybrid work arrangement: initial training in Richmond office, then flexible schedule. Remote work considered for highly qualified candidates outside the Richmond/Northern VA area Collaborative team culture with access to global privacy experts Potential to transition to full-time position as the practice grows Compensation Competitive hourly rate: $25-$35/hour (commensurate with experience and qualifications) Professional development budget for certifications and continuing education Opportunity for advancement and salary increases tied to certification completion and performance GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES This role offers a clear career path in privacy compliance with international scope: Year 1: Master core privacy operations, complete IAPP certification, and develop expertise in records management and data mapping Year 2: Take on more complex privacy assessments, lead client projects, and specialize in life sciences compliance Year 3+: Potential to transition to full-time Privacy Analyst, DPO support role, or Privacy Consultant position The privacy profession is experiencing explosive growth as regulations expand globally and organizations increasingly need qualified professionals. You will gain hands-on experience with real privacy programs spanning 50+ jurisdictions, building expertise that is highly valued across industries, particularly in life sciences and healthcare where privacy requirements are most stringent. HOW TO APPLY Please submit the following materials: Resume highlighting relevant administrative, technical, and project coordination experience Cover letter explaining your interest in privacy and data protection and why you're a good fit for this role Brief writing sample (business email, report, or memo demonstrating professional communication) In your cover letter, please address: 1. What interests you about building a career in privacy and data protection? 2. Describe a time you managed multiple detailed projects simultaneously—how did you stay organized? 3. What experience do you have with databases, data organization, or complex information systems? 4. For remote candidates: Explain how you would ensure effective collaboration and communication working remotely We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team that reflects the global nature of our practice. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences. Achieved Compliance is an Equal Opportunity Employer

expert ARTICLE 27 COMPLIANCE

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