Data Governance Consultant

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Data Governance Consultant & Expert with extensive knowledge of the UAE and Saudi Arabia markets. This role requires an individual who can lead data governance projects, ensuring compliance with local regulations and adherence to international best practices. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in data governance frameworks, policies, and technologies, and will play a pivotal role in shaping and implementing data governance strategies for our clients.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and Implement Data Governance Strategies: Design, build, and implement comprehensive data governance frameworks, policies, and standards that align with client needs and regulatory requirements in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
• Regulatory Compliance & Best Practices: Ensure compliance with regional regulations such as UAE’s Data Protection Law and Saudi Arabia’s Personal Data Protection Law, and align frameworks with international standards (e.g., GDPR, ISO 27001) and industry best practices.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with key stakeholders, including data stewards, IT teams, and business leaders, to drive the adoption of data governance practices across the organization.
• Data Quality & Metadata Management: Establish processes for data quality management, metadata management, and data lifecycle management, ensuring data is accurate, consistent, and up-to-date.
• Policy Development & Enforcement: Develop policies and procedures for data access, privacy, and usage, and enforce data governance policies to support data security and privacy initiatives.
• Data Governance Technology & Tools: Recommend and support the implementation of data governance technologies and tools for data cataloging, data lineage, and data stewardship.
• Training & Awareness: Create training programs and workshops to increase awareness and knowledge of data governance principles and ensure effective adoption by all levels of the organization.
• Audits & Continuous Improvement: Conduct periodic audits and assessments to ensure compliance and effectiveness of data governance practices, identifying opportunities for improvement.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Extensive Experience: A minimum of 7-10 years of experience in data governance, data management, or related consulting roles, preferably in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Strong understanding of local regulations, including UAE Data Protection Law, Saudi Arabia Personal Data Protection Law, and relevant regional data privacy regulations.
• International Best Practices: Familiarity with global data governance and privacy standards such as GDPR, CCPA, ISO 27001, DAMA DMBOK, and best practices in data governance.
• Technical Skills: Experience with data governance tools and platforms (e.g., Collibra, Informatica, Alation) and strong understanding of data management technologies (e.g., data warehousing, ETL tools).
• Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills: Strong ability to analyze complex data governance issues, recommend solutions, and execute strategies to address business needs.
• Project Management: Proven ability to lead projects, work collaboratively in cross-functional teams, and manage multiple clients or projects simultaneously.
• Communication & Leadership: Excellent communication, presentation, and leadership skills to effectively engage and influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Information Technology, Data Science, Business Administration, or related field. Relevant certifications such as CDMP (Certified Data Management Professional), DGSP (Data Governance and Stewardship Professional), or CIPT (Certified Information Privacy Technologist) are highly preferred.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working within various industries (e.g., finance, healthcare, government) in the Middle East, providing data governance solutions.
• Bilingual proficiency (Arabic and English) to effectively communicate with diverse stakeholders in the region.

What We Offer:

• Dynamic Work Environment: Work with leading clients in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, driving data governance strategies that shape their future success.
• Professional Growth: Opportunities for professional development and certifications to stay at the forefront of data governance trends and practices.
• Competitive Compensation & Benefits: An attractive salary package, health benefits, and opportunities for career advancement.