Data Governance Lead

Role Summary:

The Data Governance Lead is responsible for building and implementing an enterprise-wide Data Governance (DG) framework. The role requires hands-on experience in establishing governance processes, leading Data Governance Council meetings, and driving data quality initiatives through both process and technology. The role ensures data accuracy, integrity, security, and regulatory compliance across the organization.

Major Areas of Responsibility:

Design & Technical

• Develop and implement data governance strategies and frameworks to ensure data accuracy, integrity, and security.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify data governance needs and define data standards, policies, and procedures.
• Monitor and enforce data governance policies to ensure compliance and mitigate data risks.
• Lead data quality improvement initiatives, including data profiling, cleansing, and validation.
• Provide guidance to business units on data governance best practices, data privacy regulations, and data management principles.

Functional

• Implement data governance tools covering data cataloging, data quality, data lineage, data security, data stewardship, data policies, standards, reporting, and integration.
• Conduct Data Governance Council meetings for continuous review and improvement of data quality across AD Airports.
• Continuously monitor and assess data quality maturity across AD Airports.
• Define operational data governance policies supporting multiple data domains.
• Establish data quality rules, policies, and procedures ensuring accuracy, reliability, compliance, and security.
• Ensure understanding and implementation of data governance practices, data protection, and government regulatory requirements (GDPR, CCPA, LGPD).
• Stay informed of emerging trends and issues in data governance and data protection.

Required Competencies, Qualifications/ Education and Experience

Core Competencies

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across all stakeholder levels.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, changing environment and manage multiple priorities.
• Proven capability to lead and implement change initiatives related to data governance processes and technologies.
• Strong understanding of data governance frameworks, data privacy regulations, and data quality assurance practices.
• Ability to translate complex data concepts into clear, strategic recommendations.

Education & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Management, or a related field.
• Data Governance Principal Certification in Azure.
• Overall 9+ years of professional experience, with a minimum of 7 years in a related field.
• Proven experience in data governance or data management, preferably within aviation or a related industry.

Technical Experience

• Experience with modern Big Data platforms such as Azure.
• Hands-on experience with data governance tools, especially Microsoft Purview.
• Knowledge of data quality management practices.
• End-to-end functional and implementation experience with Microsoft Purview is an added advantage.
• Familiarity with data privacy regulations such as GDPR and CCPA and their impact on data governance.

At Abu Dhabi Airports, we are shaping the future of aviation in the region. Join a team where your expertise can make a real impact in ensuring world-class operational safety and efficiency. Apply today and join our team!