The DPO Centre secures shortlist for two categories at ICA Compliance Awards

The DPO Centre has once again been recognised at the ICA Compliance Awards Europe, being shortlisted in both Compliance Consultancy Firm of the Year and Rising Star categories for 2026.

The awards celebrate organisations and individuals who go beyond expectations to collaborate, innovate, and raise compliance standards across the global compliance and financial crime prevention community.

The judging panel was made up of a diverse range of highly influential and respected figures within the compliance and financial crime prevention community, including Caroline Braddock, Ethics and Compliance Officer at Rolls-Royce, and Anthony Davies, Senior Compliance Manager at AXA Health. 

The winners will be announced during an awards ceremony at the Park Plaza Westminster, London on 25 June 2026. 

Compliance Consultancy Firm of the Year

This shortlisting reflects The DPO Centre’s work supporting the NSPCC through complex regulatory and technological change, led by Data Protection Officer Dom Newton. Working closely with NSPCC’s team, The DPO Centre embedded child-centred privacy practices across safeguarding services, supporter engagement, and AI-enabled initiatives. This approach has helped the charity strengthen governance around emerging technologies, improve how safeguarding data is used in practice, and support its ability to identify risks and inform national policy. 

Lenitha Bishop, CEO at The DPO Centre, said,

‘It’s fantastic to see The DPO Centre shortlisted again across two categories. This recognition reflects the strength of our #ONETEAM and the way we work alongside our clients to deliver meaningful, practical outcomes. Our partnership with the NSPCC demonstrates how effective data protection can support innovation and public trust, while Emily’s nomination highlights the calibre of talent we continue to develop within the business.’

Rising Star

The Rising Star nomination recognises Emily Barber, Data Protection Officer at The DPO Centre, for her outstanding contribution to clients and colleagues over the past year. Since joining the business in 2025, Emily has rapidly progressed into a leadership role whilst continuing to deliver complex compliance support across multiple sectors.  

Emily said,

‘I’m delighted to be nominated, and it’s a real privilege to be recognised in such a strong company. I’m very grateful to The DPO Centre for the opportunity to grow in my role, learn from a brilliant team, and support our clients across a wide range of sectors.‘

About the ICA

The International Compliance Association (ICA) is a leading professional body for the global regulatory and financial crime compliance community. The ICA Compliance Awards recognise best practice, champion the profession, and highlight the critical role compliance plays in an evolving regulatory and business landscape.