The optimum first step to take when creating a Privacy Officer governance model is to involve senior leadership. Senior leadership plays a crucial role in establishing and supporting a privacy program within an organization. They can provide strategic direction, allocate resources, approve policies, endorse initiatives, communicate values, and demonstrate accountability. By involving senior leadership from the beginning, a Privacy Officer can ensure that the privacy program aligns with the organization’s vision, mission, goals, and culture. Senior leadership can also help overcome potential barriers or resistance from other stakeholders by endorsing and promoting the privacy program.