Data Governance Manager Job Description

Key responsibilities

• 📊 Develop and implement data governance frameworks: This responsibility involves creating and overseeing the structures, policies, and procedures that ensure data is managed securely and used effectively. The Data Governance Manager shapes these frameworks to align with organisational goals, ensuring compliance with privacy regulations.

• 🔍 Monitor data quality and manage issues: Vigilance in maintaining data quality is a key focus, preventing errors and inconsistencies that could impact decision-making processes. The role entails setting data standards, implementing monitoring systems, and swiftly addressing any data-related issues. By safeguarding the accuracy and reliability of data, the Data Governance Manager enables teams to rely on solid information.

• 👥 Collaborate with stakeholders and promote data literacy: Acting as a bridge between various departments, the Data Governance Manager fosters collaboration and communication among stakeholders. They promote data literacy across the organisation, ensuring that all team members, from IT to business units, understand data governance policies and practices. Through workshops and training, they empower colleagues to confidently use and protect data.

• 🔒 Ensure compliance with data protection regulations: Adherence to regulations like the Australian Privacy Principles and GDPR is essential. The Data Governance Manager is responsible for developing policies that comply with these laws, monitoring their application, and conducting audits to ensure continuous compliance.

• 📈 Drive continuous improvement in data governance: Continuous improvement is the heart of effective data governance. The Data Governance Manager is tasked with identifying opportunities for enhancements, implementing new tools or methodologies, and adapting to evolving industry best practices.

Qualifications and skills

• Bachelor's degree in Information Management, Computer Science, or a related field: This provides a strong foundation for the role. An advanced degree would be beneficial.

• Experience in data governance: Has several years of experience in data governance or a related discipline, ensuring familiarity with best practices and compliance requirements.

• Certification: Possesses industry-relevant certifications such as CDMP (Certified Data Management Professional) or similar credentials, demonstrating a commitment to keeping skills current.

• Analytical skills: Exhibits sharp analytical abilities to assess and address organisational data needs and implement effective governance strategies.

• Technology expertise: Familiarity with data management platforms and tools, such as Collibra, Informatica, or similar, is advantageous for efficiently managing data assets.

• Project management: Proven capability in managing complex projects and initiatives, keeping them on track and aligning with organisational goals.

• Strong communication skills: Capable of conveying complex data concepts to non-technical stakeholders, fostering a culture of understanding and compliance.

• Leadership abilities: Demonstrates leadership qualities, including the ability to motivate, mentor, and guide a team within the governance framework.

• Problem-solving skills: Applies innovative thinking to overcome challenges and improve data processes, ensuring the integrity and reliability of data assets.

• Attention to detail: Exhibits meticulous attention to detail, vital for maintaining accuracy and quality in data governance activities.

• Regulatory knowledge: In-depth understanding of relevant regulatory requirements and data privacy laws, ensuring company compliance at all times.

Career path and opportunities

A career as a Data Governance Manager offers a dynamic pathway filled with growth opportunities. With experience, one can progress to roles like Senior Data Governance Manager or Head of Data Governance, steering strategic initiatives and guiding larger teams.
This role opens doors to executive positions such as Chief Data Officer, where one shapes data strategy across an organisation. Additionally, they may transition into related fields like data privacy or risk management, leveraging their expertise to influence policy and compliance frameworks.

Related job titles

• Data Steward
• Data Quality Manager
• Information Governance Lead
• Data Compliance Officer
• Chief Data Officer
• Data Management Specialist
• Data Strategy Director
• Information Security Manager
• Data Protection Consultant
• Enterprise Data Architect

Example job description

Job title: Data Governance Manager

Job overview:
In the ever-evolving landscape of data management, a Data Governance Manager plays a pivotal role in shaping how information is stored, accessed, and utilised.
This role is perfect for someone passionate about data accuracy, privacy, and organisational efficiency. As a Data Governance Manager, you'll steer efforts to ensure data integrity and compliance across all departments, making a substantial impact on the company's operations.

Key responsibilities:

• Develop and implement data governance strategies and frameworks to support organisational objectives
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure data quality, security, and availability align with industry standards
• Monitor and enforce data governance policies while promoting best practices within the company
• Lead training sessions and workshops to enhance data literacy and governance awareness across teams
• Manage the enterprise data stewardship program, ensuring accountability for data across all business units

Required qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Management, Computer Science, Business Administration, or a related field
• Proven experience in data governance or data management roles, demonstrating strong analytical and leadership skills
• Comprehensive understanding of data governance frameworks and principles
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, enabling effective collaboration with diverse teams

Preferred qualifications:

• Master’s degree in a relevant field
• Familiarity with data governance tools and software
• Experience in a managerial role within a similar industry
• Knowledge of relevant regulatory and compliance standards in data management

Perks/benefits:

• Competitive salary package tailored to the industry
• Flexible working arrangements promoting work-life balance
• Generous annual leave with additional days for personal development
• Comprehensive health and wellness programs
• Opportunities for professional growth through training and development courses

Frequently asked questions

What does a Data Governance Manager do?

A Data Governance Manager plays a crucial role in ensuring that an organisation’s data is managed, protected, and utilised efficiently. They are responsible for developing and implementing policies that maintain the integrity, quality, and security of data across the organisation. By fostering a culture of data stewardship, they enable teams to confidently use data-driven insights to guide business decisions.

What are their key duties and responsibilities?

The key duties and responsibilities of a Data Governance Manager include creating and enforcing data governance policies and procedures, overseeing data management strategies, and ensuring compliance with relevant data protection regulations. They collaborate with stakeholders across the business to develop data standards and promote best practices. Additionally, they monitor data-related incidents and implement risk management protocols to mitigate potential threats to data integrity.

What makes a great Data Governance Manager?

A great Data Governance Manager possesses a blend of technical knowledge, strategic thinking, and exceptional communication skills. They are skilled in navigating the complexities of data management and are adept at developing scalable solutions that evolve with organisational needs. Their ability to lead cross-functional teams and engage stakeholders at all levels is vital for fostering a culture of data stewardship. Furthermore, their proactive approach to problem-solving inspires confidence and trust throughout the organisation.