Head of Data

Soni's client is seeking a strategic and forward-thinking leader to head our enterprise data function. Reporting to the Chief Information Officer, this role will define and execute an enterprise-wide data strategy, partner closely with business leaders, and oversee a growing team of data professionals.

The ideal candidate will champion data-driven decision-making, enable innovation through responsible AI adoption, and ensure strong data governance and operational excellence.

This leader will combine business acumen with technical expertise, excel in cross-functional collaboration, and demonstrate a track record of translating data initiatives into measurable business value. The role will focus on maturing enterprise data capabilities, establishing scalable foundations, and accelerating AI-enabled impact across the organization.

Key Responsibilities:

Enterprise Data Strategy & Business Impact

• Define and execute an enterprise data strategy aligned with organizational growth and operational priorities
  
  
• Serve as a strategic advisor to executive leadership on data, analytics, and AI initiatives
  
  
• Partner with business and functional leaders to identify and unlock value from data
  
  
• Translate business needs into actionable data roadmaps and initiatives

Leadership & Organizational Development

• Build, lead, and develop a high-performing team spanning data governance, engineering, analytics, and AI enablement
  
  
• Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement
  
  
• Promote adoption of data-driven decision-making across all levels of the organization

Data Governance & Operations

• Establish and oversee enterprise data governance frameworks to ensure data quality, privacy, security, and compliance
  
  
• Lead scalable data architecture and data management initiatives, including master data management
  
  
• Ensure responsible, secure, and compliant use of AI technologies

Technology & AI Enablement

• Own the end-to-end data technology ecosystem, including platforms, tools, and infrastructure
  
  
• Ensure scalability, performance, security, and reliability of the data environment
  
  
• Evaluate and implement technologies aligned to evolving business needs
  
  
• Identify practical AI and advanced analytics opportunities to improve operational efficiency and customer outcomes

Roadmap, Delivery & Budget Management

• Develop and manage a multi-year data and analytics roadmap aligned with strategic priorities
  
  
• Prioritize initiatives based on value, risk, and organizational readiness
  
  
• Ensure initiatives are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget
  
  
• Define and track measurable ROI for data investments
  
  
• Manage and optimize budget and resource allocation

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Information Systems, Business, or related field
  
  
• 7+ years of progressive experience in enterprise data leadership roles
  
  
• Proven experience building or scaling enterprise data platforms and governance frameworks
  
  
• Experience partnering with executive stakeholders to drive strategic and organizational change
  
  
• Strong communication, influencing, and relationship-building skills

Preferred Experience:

• Experience in multi-entity or distributed operations environments
  
  
• Experience in private equity-backed or high-growth organizations
  
  
• Certifications such as CDMP, DCAM, or equivalent data governance credentials

Compensation: $200,000 to $250,000 annually
Compensation is based on a range of factors that include relevant experience, knowledge, skills, other job-related qualifications.