What Does a Data Governance Manager Do?

The Data Governance Manager plays an essential role in overseeing an organization’s data management practices, ensuring that data across all systems is accurate, available, and secure. This position involves developing and implementing data standards and policies that support the organization’s objectives, while also facilitating effective data sharing and protection. By coordinating with various departments, the Data Governance Manager ensures that data practices align with regulatory requirements and business strategies, ultimately enhancing decision-making processes and operational efficiency. Their efforts lead to improved data quality, reduced data management costs, and a solid foundation for analytics and business intelligence activities, making them an integral part of the organization’s data management framework.

Data Governance Manager Job Duties

• Develop and implement comprehensive data governance policies and procedures to ensure the integrity, availability, and confidentiality of the organization’s data.
• Coordinate with IT and business units to establish data quality standards, including accuracy, completeness, and timeliness, and monitor compliance.
• Facilitate the creation and maintenance of a data dictionary and metadata repository to ensure clear understanding and consistent use of data across the organization.
• Oversee data privacy and compliance efforts, ensuring adherence to relevant laws and regulations such as GDPR and CCPA.
• Lead cross-functional data governance committees or working groups to address data-related issues and identify opportunities for data optimization.
• Manage the resolution of data quality issues, including root cause analysis, corrective action plans, and improvement initiatives.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to data governance objectives, reporting on progress to senior management.
• Advocate for the strategic use of data through training and communication programs aimed at enhancing data literacy across the organization.

Data Governance Manager Salary & Outlook

Salary for a Data Governance Manager is influenced by factors such as industry sector, company size, years of experience, and the complexity of data governance needs. Specialized knowledge in regulatory compliance, risk management, and technological proficiency in data management tools also significantly impact compensation.

• Median Annual Salary: $120,750 ($58.05/hour)
• Top 10% Annual Salary: $279,090 ($134.18/hour)

The employment of data governance managers is expected to grow much faster than average over the next decade.

This surge is driven by increasing data volumes, regulatory compliance requirements, and the need for data quality and security, necessitating skilled professionals to oversee data governance frameworks, ensure data integrity, and manage data-related risks in diverse industries.

Data Governance Manager Job Requirements

Education: A Data Governance Manager typically holds a Bachelor’s Degree in fields such as Computer Science, Information Technology, Data Management, or Business Administration. Relevant coursework includes data analysis, database management, information systems, and business intelligence. Advanced degrees, like a Master’s in Data Science or Information Management, are common and enhance job prospects. Specialized studies in data privacy, security laws, and ethical data handling practices are crucial for this role.

Experience: Data Governance Managers typically emerge from a background rich in hands-on experience with data management, policy development, and compliance oversight. Ideal candidates have progressed through roles that demanded increasing responsibility in data stewardship, showcasing their ability to implement governance frameworks and ensure data integrity across organizations. On-the-job training, often through mentorship or specialized internal programs, plays a crucial role in honing the strategic, analytical, and leadership skills necessary for this position. Experience in collaborating with IT, legal, and business units to align data governance practices with organizational goals is also pivotal.

Certifications & Licenses: Certifications beneficial for a Data Governance Manager include Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Data Management Professional (CDMP), and Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP). No specific licenses are required for this role.

Data Governance Manager Skills

Data Quality Management: Strategies and tools are implemented by a Data Governance Manager to monitor and uphold high-quality data standards, ensuring accuracy, completeness, reliability, and timeliness across the organization. Collaboration with IT, business stakeholders, and data users is crucial to establish data quality metrics and benchmarks, which support informed decision-making and adherence to regulatory requirements.

Regulatory Compliance: A Data Governance Manager is responsible for aligning data management practices with current laws and industry regulations. By monitoring compliance frameworks and updates, the manager adapts strategies and policies proactively to meet evolving legal requirements, protecting the organization from potential data breaches and legal consequences.

Metadata Management: The development and execution of strategies for cataloging, classifying, and maintaining data accuracy are essential for efficient utilization and secure access to an organization’s information assets. Documenting data lineage, usage, and quality metrics is a key task, enabling informed decisions and compliance with regulatory standards.

Data Privacy: Compliance with global data protection regulations, such as GDPR and CCPA, involves managing personal and sensitive information with a thorough understanding of legal frameworks. Implementing robust data handling and security measures is critical to prevent breaches and ensure ethical data usage.

Master Data Management: Policies and procedures are established and enforced by a Data Governance Manager to ensure the consistency, accuracy, and accountability of critical data across all business units. Collaborating with IT and business stakeholders to identify master data needs and implement management solutions is part of this role, which supports strategic decision-making and operational efficiency.

Data Lifecycle Management: The integrity, availability, and confidentiality of data throughout its entire lifecycle are managed by a Data Governance Manager. Efficient management of data, from creation and storage to archiving and deletion, is achieved through meticulous planning and execution of policies, procedures, and technologies, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

Data Governance Manager Work Environment

A Data Governance Manager typically operates within a modern office environment, where the emphasis on digital tools and technology is paramount. Their workspace is often equipped with multiple monitors and advanced software to manage and analyze data effectively. This role usually allows for a blend of in-office and remote work, adapting to the needs of projects and team collaboration.

The work culture emphasizes precision, compliance, and collaboration, with a dress code that leans towards business casual, reflecting a balance between professionalism and comfort. Interaction with various departments is frequent, necessitating strong communication skills and a cooperative attitude.

Health and safety protocols align with standard office practices, ensuring a well-lit, ergonomically sound environment that minimizes physical strain. Professional development opportunities are abundant, given the rapidly evolving nature of data governance, technology, and regulations, encouraging continuous learning and adaptation.

Overall, the role demands a meticulous, analytical approach within a dynamic, supportive setting, offering a balanced work-life integration.

Advancement Prospects

A Data Governance Manager can advance to senior management roles such as Chief Data Officer (CDO) or Vice President of Data Governance, focusing on strategic oversight and enterprise-wide data governance frameworks. Achieving these positions often requires a deep understanding of data regulations, ethics, and a proven track record in implementing effective data governance strategies.

Progression may also lead to specialized roles in data privacy, compliance, or risk management, where expertise in specific regulations like GDPR or CCPA is crucial. Success in these areas demands a keen eye for detail and the ability to navigate complex legal landscapes.

Transitioning into consultancy is another viable path, offering services in data governance strategy and implementation to various organizations. This requires a strong reputation, extensive experience, and the ability to adapt to diverse corporate cultures and needs.

To accomplish these advancements, focusing on high-impact projects, building a strong internal and external network, and staying abreast of the latest in data legislation and technology trends are essential strategies.