Data Governance Director

The Data Governance Director is a group centralized role responsible for developing, leading, and enforcing the enterprise-wide data governance strategy, ensuring high data quality, integrity, privacy, and regulatory compliance across all business units (BUs). This role stewards the establishment of robust data governance frameworks, policies, and standards, and drives the culture of data accountability and stewardship across the group.

Responsibilities

• Define and lead the Group-wide Data Governance Strategy, ensuring alignment with business objectives, international standards (ISO), and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Establish data as a core strategic asset and form of intellectual property, while leading a cultural transformation towards data ownership and quality accountability across all Business Units.
• Develop and maintain Group-wide reporting and health monitoring dashboards for critical data elements to enable proactive data quality management and informed decision-making.
• Oversee selection, implementation, and optimization of data governance platforms (e.g., Collibra).
• Ensure tools are integrated into group-wide upstream & downstream enterprise architecture and data workflows effectively.
• Maintain records of processing activities (RoPA) and support data-related audits and risk assessments.

Requirements

• 12 to 15 years of progressive experience in data governance, with a strong track record of leading and managing large-scale enterprise implementations.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in a control or assurance function, such as Risk Management, Compliance, or Internal Audit.
• Industry experience in Retail, Banking, or Consulting environments, with a solid understanding of sector-specific data challenges.
• Demonstrated success in leading enterprise-level data governance programs within complex and matrixed organizations.
• Strong leadership presence and communication skills, with a history of delivering strategic insights and recommendations to executive leadership and Board-level stakeholders.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, sound judgment, and the ability to influence cross-functional teams.

Location
Dubai

Work Conditions
Regular