Dina Maxwell on Leading PwC Canada’s Internal Data Protection and Intellectual Property Program
In an era where data privacy and intellectual property have become cornerstones of corporate strategy, Dina Maxwell stands out as a leader in her field. As the Chief Privacy Officer at PwC Canada, Maxwell oversees a comprehensive program that touches every aspect of the organization. Her journey to this pivotal role is as inspiring as it is instructive, reflecting a career built on passion, expertise, and a deep understanding of the evolving legal landscape.
From Journalism to Privacy Law
Maxwell’s interest in privacy law was sparked during an unlikely summer job. While working as a beat reporter for the Telegraph-Journal in New Brunswick, she covered a government consultation on access to information legislation. This experience not only deepened her understanding of the complexities of information law but also laid the groundwork for a career dedicated to protecting data and privacy.
Her educational background further solidified her foundation in the field. Maxwell earned a Bachelor of Arts in English & American Literature and Language with a minor in French from Harvard University. She later pursued a Juris Doctor (J.D.) from the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Law, graduating in 2009. She was called to the Ontario Bar in 2010, marking the beginning of her legal career.
A Career Built on Specialization
After articling, Maxwell began her career at a privacy research firm, where she immersed herself in the study of privacy law and its surrounding legal landscape. At the time, privacy law was still a niche field, but Maxwell saw its potential for growth and impact. Her early years in this space allowed her to develop a specialization that would become increasingly valuable as data protection rose to the forefront of corporate concerns.
Today, as Chief Privacy Officer at PwC Canada, Maxwell’s responsibilities are both extensive and multifaceted. Her team manages a wide range of critical functions, including:
- Data protection policies
- Incident response
- Anti-spam compliance
- Data impact assessments
- Privacy aspects of vendor contracts
Despite the breadth of her role, Maxwell leads a lean team of just three professionals. This structure necessitates a highly efficient and strategic approach to managing their workload.
Leading with Innovation and Efficiency
Maxwell’s approach to her role is characterized by innovation and collaboration. To manage the team’s workload effectively, they:
- Embed themselves into the business
- Embrace technology for efficiency
- Work smarter with less overhead
One of the key tools in their arsenal is artificial intelligence (AI). Maxwell is a strong advocate for the use of AI in legal work, likening it to “a very smart associate who’s going to help you do your work more efficiently.” She is actively involved in shaping a framework at PwC that balances innovation with legal guardrails, ensuring AI tools are vetted and used appropriately.
Maxwell’s role has also expanded beyond traditional data protection activities to include areas previously considered part of tech law. This evolution reflects the growing interconnectedness of privacy, technology, and corporate strategy in the digital age.
A Partner in Innovation
In her approach to her role, Maxwell is deliberate about positioning herself as a partner in innovation rather than just the final stop for legal sign-off. She aims to foster creativity and innovation while maintaining a clear view of risk, compliance, and protection for the organization and its people.
This mindset has earned Maxwell a reputation as a forward-thinking leader in her field. Her ability to navigate the complexities of data protection while supporting innovation has made her an indispensable asset to PwC Canada.
Certifications and Expertise
Dina Maxwell’s dedication to her field is further evidenced by her numerous certifications, which underscore her expertise in privacy law. She holds several prestigious designations, including:
- Fellow of Information Privacy (FIP)
- Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM)
- Certified Information Privacy Professional in Canada (CIPP/C)
- Certified Information Privacy Professional in the United States (CIPP/US)
Advocacy and Thought Leadership
Maxwell extends her influence beyond her role at PwC through active involvement in equity and diversity initiatives. She regularly advises organizations on the collection of race-based data in the workplace, contributing to more inclusive and equitable practices.
A sought-after expert, Maxwell frequently lectures, presents, and speaks on topics such as privacy, data governance, and big data. Her insights are also shared through various publications, further solidifying her position as a thought leader in her field.
A Career of Impact
Reflecting on her journey, Maxwell’s career path has diverged from her initial expectations after law school, yet it has positioned her to make significant strides in data protection and privacy. Her story exemplifies the dynamic evolution of privacy law and its heightened importance in today’s digital landscape.
Conclusion
Dina Maxwell’s journey from a curious journalist to a leading figure in privacy law is a testament to her dedication, expertise, and forward-thinking approach. As Chief Privacy Officer at PwC Canada, she has successfully navigated the evolving landscape of data protection and intellectual property, setting a high standard for innovation and compliance.
Maxwell’s career underscores the importance of adaptability and strategic thinking in a rapidly changing digital world. Her integration of AI, collaborative leadership style, and commitment to equity and diversity initiatives highlight her multifaceted impact on the field of privacy law. Her story serves as an inspiration for aspiring professionals, demonstrating how a passion for privacy can lead to meaningful and influential work.
As data privacy continues to shape corporate strategies and legal frameworks, Maxwell’s contributions will undoubtedly remain pivotal in guiding organizations toward a secure and ethical digital future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Dina Maxwell’s role at PwC Canada?
Dina Maxwell is the Chief Privacy Officer at PwC Canada, overseeing a comprehensive data protection and intellectual property program that encompasses data protection policies, incident response, compliance, and privacy aspects of vendor contracts.
What certifications does Dina Maxwell hold?
Maxwell holds several prestigious certifications, including Fellow of Information Privacy (FIP), Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM), Certified Information Privacy Professional in Canada (CIPP/C), and Certified Information Privacy Professional in the United States (CIPP/US).
How did Dina Maxwell become interested in privacy law?
Maxwell’s interest in privacy law was sparked during a summer job as a beat reporter covering government consultations on access to information legislation. This experience laid the foundation for her career in privacy law.
What is Maxwell’s approach to managing her team’s workload?
Maxwell leads a lean team by embedding themselves into the business, embracing technology for efficiency, and working smarter with less overhead. She is a strong advocate for the use of AI to enhance legal work.
What advocacy work is Dina Maxwell involved in?
Maxwell is actively involved in equity and diversity initiatives, advising organizations on the collection of race-based data in the workplace to promote inclusive and equitable practices.
