Data Governance Lead

Job Title: Data Governance Lead


Location: Minneapolis, MN


Job Summary


We are seeking a hands-on Data Governance Lead to help define and implement an enterprise-wide data governance framework. This role will focus on governance strategy, Microsoft Purview implementation, data stewardship, policy creation, and collaboration across Finance, IT, and business teams.


This is a player/coach role ideal for someone who enjoys both strategy and hands-on execution in a modern data environment.


Key Responsibilities

• Lead the implementation of Microsoft Purview as the enterprise data governance platform
• Define data governance policies, standards, and ownership models
• Partner with Finance, IT, and business stakeholders to operationalize governance processes
• Support governance initiatives across Finance, HR, Operations, and other business domains
• Collaborate within a data mesh / modern analytics environment
• Support Master Data Management (MDM) initiatives and governance maturity
• Define governance KPIs related to data quality, accessibility, and compliance
• Serve as a bridge between technical and business teams

Required Skills

• Strong experience with Data Governance programs and frameworks
• Hands-on experience with Microsoft Purview
• Knowledge of Data Mesh, Data Fabric, or modern analytics architectures
• Experience with data stewardship, metadata management, and policy creation
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
• Experience working with cross-functional business and technical teams
• Familiarity with MDM and enterprise BI environments

Preferred Skills

• Experience with Microsoft Fabric (nice to have)
• Experience building governance functions from the ground up
• Leadership experience in enterprise data environments

Ideal Candidate

• Hands-on and proactive
• Comfortable working independently initially
• Strong strategic and execution mindset
• Able to influence business and technical stakeholders across teams