Insights from Jumio’s Joe Kaufmann on the Evolving Role of Chief Privacy Officers
Data privacy has transitioned significantly from its origins in safeguarding state secrets and intellectual property to a more dynamic role focused on identifying and addressing vulnerabilities within data ecosystems. According to Joe Kaufmann, global head of privacy and data protection officer at Jumio, the advent of new data protection regulations and the swift integration of artificial intelligence have fundamentally altered the responsibilities of privacy leaders.
Kaufmann emphasizes that the position of the Chief Privacy Officer (CPO) is increasingly resembling a data trust function, wherein privacy is an essential element. Today’s CPOs are required to not only comprehend the complex subject matter of data privacy but also to engage directly with business objectives and customer needs. Driving business value from data while fostering collaboration with senior management is now paramount in this role.
“The CPO functions as a bridge between various business sectors,” Kaufmann explains. “It’s crucial for them to establish a solid understanding of legal frameworks to determine what is permissible and mandatory, while also illustrating the value of their offerings to customers.” Additionally, there exists a significant technical component that informs their efforts in this evolving landscape.
In his recent video interview with the Information Security Media Group, Kaufmann explored several key topics, including the evolving responsibilities of CPOs, common vulnerabilities within enterprise data systems, and the practical applications of data privacy in artificial intelligence model training.
With over ten years of expertise in data privacy, AI governance, compliance, and data management, Kaufmann’s previous roles include prominent positions at Splunk and Upwork. Moreover, he serves as an adjunct professor of law at the University of Georgia, illustrating his commitment to education in this vital field.
As data protection continues to be a pivotal concern for organizations, Kaufmann’s insights underscore the refining landscape of privacy leadership, emphasizing a necessity for CPOs to adapt in a business-oriented manner while maintaining robust compliance and governance frameworks.
