Date
07.05.2025
Brussels, May 22nd
Sharpen your expertise, connect with regulators, and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving field
As data protection laws become more intertwined with emerging technologies and global operations, the role of the Data Protection Officer is becoming increasingly strategic—and increasingly complex. On May 22, the CPDP Conference in Brussels will host a full-day DPO Track offering a rare opportunity to dive deep into the key issues shaping the profession. With three panels and three hands-on workshops, the program brings together DPOs, regulators, and experts to explore practical solutions and forward-looking strategies.
Here’s what to expect, and why it matters.
- The DPO as a strategic investment
Too often, the DPO is still seen as a compliance obligation—an internal watchdog rather than a value-creating role. But fresh research and practical insights show a different picture: DPOs can contribute directly to business outcomes, including improved risk management, stronger reputation, and better internal governance. It’s time to recognize the DPO as a strategic asset (Panel: The Economic Benefits of Having a DPO).
- One role, many rules: DPOs across legal systems
The responsibilities, legal status, and level of independence granted to DPOs vary significantly from country to country—and sometimes even within the same jurisdiction. These differences affect not only how DPOs are positioned inside organizations, but also how they navigate accountability, liability, and dismissal protection. For companies operating internationally, understanding these variations is essential to building effective privacy governance across borders (Panel: The DPO Universales: Crossing Borders on a Bumpy Road).
- AI Governance: From policy to practice
As AI technologies evolve, organizations are under pressure to define clear internal governance—yet most are still figuring out where to start. In this workshop, DPOs and privacy professionals will explore practical models for AI governance, share blockers and success stories, and reflect on how privacy obligations align with AI strategy. Whether you’re laying the groundwork or refining an existing approach, this session is packed with real-world insight (Workshop: Building Internal AI Governance: Challenges, Models, and Privacy Insights).
- DPOs and DPAs: Rethinking the relationship
The relationship between DPOs and data protection authorities (DPAs) is crucial, yet often unclear or underutilized. This unique session brings both sides together in small working groups to discuss expectations, common challenges, and opportunities for stronger collaboration. The outcomes will be shared with all participants and may inform future recommendations for better DPO–DPA interaction (Workshop: DPO Meets DPA to Discuss Their Relationship).
- Cookies & Compliance: A practical guide
Looking for a hands-on compliance tool? This workshop offers a deep dive into the EDPB Website Auditing Tool, designed to help DPOs assess cookie use, detect trackers, and check basic website security. You’ll get a step-by-step tour of the tool and have the chance to apply it directly, helping you build a reusable audit process for your organization (Workshop: EDPB Website Auditing Tool: An Easy Way to Check Cookie Compliance).
- Law Enforcement & Privacy: Finding the right balance
In law enforcement, DPOs must constantly balance privacy rights with the need for effective policing. New technologies such as facial recognition, drones, and biometrics add new legal and ethical layers to this already complex space. In this panel, experts from Europol, national police forces, and CERN discuss how DPOs can navigate these competing demands while maintaining transparency and accountability (Panel: Data Protection for European Law Enforcement).
A Full Day of Insight, Collaboration, and practical takeaways
Whether you work in a multinational, a public agency, or a fast-growing company—whether you’re focused on health, education, or tech—this track will give you fresh ideas, valuable tools, and stronger connections with fellow professionals. The CPDP DPO Track is more than a conference day; it’s a strategic reset for privacy leaders.
➡ Register now and enjoy 50% reduction fee (see Dedicated Tracks Registration).
Date
07.05.2025
