What Does a Data Governance Team Do & Why is It Crucial?

Updated November 24th, 2023
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A data governance team is responsible for creating and implementing the strategies, policies, and processes that ensure the organization’s data is accurate, consistent, secure, and available to the appropriate users.

Their main objective is to ensure that data is managed, stored, and used effectively, securely, and in compliance with relevant regulations and industry best practices. The team typically consists of professionals from various departments, including IT, legal, compliance, data management, and business stakeholders.

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In this article, we will explore:

  1. What does a data governance team do?
  2. The role of data governance teams to effective data management
  3. How to find and recruit the right members for your data governance team?
  4. Role requirements for the right data governance team

Ready? Let’s dive in!

Table of contents #

  1. What does a data governance team do? Understanding their role in effective data management
  2. The key roles in a data governance team and their contribution to effective data management
  3. How to hire the right members for a strong data governance team?
  4. Building the right data governance team: Key role requirements
  5. Rounding it all up
  6. Data governance with Atlan
  7. What does a data governance team do? Related reads

What does a data governance team do? Understanding their role in effective data management #

In this section of our blog, we will explore the key tasks performed by a data governance team and their importance in ensuring successful data management. The main tasks of a data governance team typically include:

  1. Developing a data governance framework
  2. Establishing data governance policies and procedures
  3. Data quality management
  4. Data lineage and metadata management
  5. Data security and privacy
  6. Data access and usage controls
  7. Data stewardship
  8. Training and education
  9. Compliance and risk management
  10. Performance measurement and continuous improvement

Now, let us understand their role in brief:

1. Developing a data governance framework #


This includes defining the roles, responsibilities, and accountabilities for data management and usage across the organization.

The team’s first task is to create a structured framework that outlines the organization’s approach to data governance. This framework includes defining the scope, objectives, and governance structure for data management.

2. Establishing data governance policies and procedures #


The team creates policies and guidelines that outline how data should be collected, stored, used, and shared within the organization.

Once the framework is in place, the team develops comprehensive data governance policies and procedures. These documents detail how data should be handled, specifying data ownership, roles and responsibilities, and the processes for data management, access, and security.

3. Data quality management #


The team is responsible for establishing processes to ensure the accuracy, completeness, and consistency of data across the organization.

Data quality is paramount. The team establishes data quality standards and metrics, monitors data quality through regular assessments, and develops processes for data profiling, cleansing, and validation to ensure data accuracy, consistency, and reliability.

4. Data lineage and metadata management #


The team maintains an inventory of data assets and ensures that data lineage (i.e., the data’s origins, transformations, and usage) is accurately documented and maintained.

Data lineage and metadata management involve tracking and documenting the flow of data through the organization and maintaining metadata catalogs. This helps users understand data origins, transformations, and relationships, supporting informed decision-making and compliance efforts.

5. Data security and privacy #


The team works to ensure that data is protected from unauthorized access, disclosure, or tampering and that privacy regulations are followed.

The team ensures that data is secure and compliant with privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA). This includes defining data classification, encryption, and access controls, conducting security audits, and responding to data breaches with appropriate incident response plans.

6. Data access and usage controls #


The team sets up the appropriate levels of access and permissions for different users, ensuring that they have the necessary information to perform their tasks.

Data governance teams establish access control policies and procedures to manage who can access specific data and what they can do with it. This involves role-based access, user authentication, and authorization mechanisms.

7. Data stewardship #


The team identifies and assigns data stewards who are responsible for the management and maintenance of specific data assets within the organization.

Data stewards are appointed and trained to take responsibility for specific data domains or datasets. They collaborate with data owners, users, and IT teams to ensure data is properly managed, meets quality standards, and complies with policies and regulations.

8. Training and education #


The team educates and trains employees on data governance policies, processes, and best practices to ensure consistent understanding and adherence.

The team develops and delivers training programs and educational materials to raise awareness and build data governance skills among employees. This includes data privacy training, data handling best practices, and awareness campaigns.

9. Compliance and risk management #


The team monitors and ensures compliance with internal policies, as well as with external regulations and industry standards related to data management and usage.

Data governance teams are responsible for monitoring and ensuring compliance with data-related regulations and standards. They also assess and manage data-related risks, implementing controls and mitigation strategies as needed.

10. Performance measurement and continuous improvement #


The team tracks the effectiveness of data governance initiatives, identifies areas for improvement, and implements changes as needed.

To gauge the effectiveness of data governance efforts, the team establishes key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics. Regularly measuring and reporting on these metrics allows for continuous improvement in data governance practices, identifying areas that need enhancement.

By focusing on these tasks, a data governance team can help your organization create a strong data management foundation, which in turn can lead to better decision-making, increased efficiency, and reduced risks.

The key roles in a data governance team and their contribution to effective data management #

A data governance team structure can vary depending on the organization’s size and specific needs. However, there are several key roles that are commonly included in the team.

Here’s a general overview of these roles and how they contribute to the tasks mentioned above:

  1. Data governance director or manager
  2. Data stewards
  3. Data quality analysts
  4. Data security and privacy officers
  5. Data governance analysts or coordinators
  6. Data architects
  7. Business process owners
  8. Legal and compliance officers

Let’s look at them in detail.

1. Data governance director or manager #


This individual oversees the entire data governance program, sets strategic direction, and ensures alignment with organizational goals. They are responsible for coordinating the efforts of the data governance team and communicating with stakeholders.

2. Data stewards #


Data stewards are responsible for managing and maintaining specific data assets within the organization. They work closely with data owners and users to ensure data quality, accuracy, and compliance with policies. Data stewards also help with data lineage and metadata management tasks.

3. Data quality analysts #


These team members focus on establishing and maintaining data quality processes, monitoring data quality metrics, and working with data stewards and other stakeholders to resolve data quality issues.

4. Data security and privacy officers #


These individuals are responsible for ensuring data protection, including adherence to privacy regulations and the implementation of data access controls. They collaborate with IT and other stakeholders to monitor and address security risks.

5. Data governance analysts or coordinators #


These team members support the overall data governance efforts by helping develop and maintain policies, procedures, and documentation. They assist in tracking compliance, measuring performance, and facilitating continuous improvement initiatives.

6. Data architects #


Data architects are responsible for designing and maintaining the organization’s data infrastructure, ensuring data is stored and organized in a manner that supports data governance initiatives. They collaborate with the team to implement metadata and data lineage solutions.

7. Business process owners #


These individuals represent various functional areas within the organization and work closely with the data governance team to ensure that data governance policies and practices align with business needs and objectives.


They provide guidance on legal and regulatory requirements related to data management and usage and help ensure the organization is compliant with these requirements.

In some organizations, additional roles may be necessary, such as a chief data officer who provides executive-level oversight and support for the data governance team. It’s also common for team members to have overlapping responsibilities or to work in a cross-functional capacity, depending on the organization’s needs and resources.

Overall, the data governance team should have a mix of technical and business expertise, as well as a deep understanding of the organization’s data landscape, to effectively carry out their tasks and ensure the success of the data governance program.

How to hire the right members for a strong data governance team? #

Hiring the right members for your data governance team is crucial for the success of your data governance initiatives.

Here are some steps to follow when hiring for each of the roles mentioned above:

  1. Define role requirements
  2. Identify internal talent
  3. Develop a hiring strategy
  4. Leverage your network
  5. Post job openings
  6. Screen and interview candidates
  7. Assess cultural fit
  8. Check references
  9. Offer competitive compensation
  10. Provide onboarding and training

Let’s look at them in detail.

1. Define role requirements #


For each role, create a clear job description that outlines the responsibilities, required skills, and qualifications. This will help you identify the right candidates and set expectations from the beginning.

2. Identify internal talent #


Look within your organization for employees who have the necessary skills and experience to take on data governance roles. They may already have knowledge of your organization’s data and processes, which can be an advantage.

3. Develop a hiring strategy #


Determine whether you need full-time employees, part-time employees, or consultants for each role. Consider your budget, project timeline, and ongoing support needs when making this decision.

4. Leverage your network #


Reach out to your professional network for referrals and recommendations. Industry events, conferences, and online forums can also be valuable sources of potential candidates.

5. Post job openings #


Advertise job openings on job boards, social media platforms, and industry-specific websites. Make sure your job postings are clear, concise, and accurately represent the roles you’re hiring for.

6. Screen and interview candidates #


Review resumes and conduct initial phone screenings to assess candidates’ qualifications and fit. During in-person or virtual interviews, ask questions that test technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and communication skills. Consider including scenario-based questions related to data governance challenges.

7. Assess cultural fit #


Evaluate how well candidates align with your organization’s culture and values. This can help ensure more successful integration of new team members and reduce the risk of turnover.

8. Check references #


Contact previous employers, colleagues, or other professional contacts to validate a candidate’s experience, skills, and work ethic.

9. Offer competitive compensation #


Provide competitive salaries, benefits, and growth opportunities to attract and retain top talent. Be prepared to negotiate if needed.

10. Provide onboarding and training #


Once hired, ensure new team members receive proper onboarding and training to familiarize them with your organization’s data governance policies, processes, and tools. This will help them become effective contributors to your data governance efforts more quickly.

By following these steps, you’ll be better positioned to hire the right individuals for your data governance team and set them up for success in their roles.

Building the right data governance team: Key role requirements #

Below is a summary of the typical role requirements for each of the data governance positions mentioned earlier. Keep in mind that these requirements may vary depending on your organization’s specific needs and priorities.

  1. Data governance director or manager
  2. Data stewards
  3. Data quality analysts
  4. Data security and privacy officers
  5. Data governance analysts or coordinators
  6. Data architects
  7. Business process owners
  8. Legal and compliance officers

Let’s look at them in detail.

1. Data governance director or manager #


  • A bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant field, such as data management, computer science, or business administration.
  • Experience in data governance, data management, or a related field.
  • Strong leadership, communication, and project management skills.
  • Knowledge of data governance frameworks, tools, and best practices.
  • Familiarity with data privacy and security regulations.

2. Data stewards #


  • A bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as computer science, information systems, or business.
  • Experience in data management, data quality, or a similar role.
  • Knowledge of data governance principles and practices.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
  • Familiarity with relevant tools, such as data profiling, data lineage, and data cataloging.

3. Data quality analysts #


  • A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as computer science, statistics, or information systems.
  • Experience in data quality, data analysis, or a related field.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail.
  • Knowledge of data quality tools, techniques, and best practices.
  • Familiarity with data governance principles and processes.

4. Data security and privacy officers #


  • A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as computer science, information security, or information systems.
  • Relevant certifications, such as CISSP, CISM, or CIPP.
  • Experience in data security, privacy, or risk management.
  • Knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail.

5. Data governance analysts or coordinators #


  • A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as data management, computer science, or business administration.
  • Experience in data governance, data analysis, or a related field.
  • Knowledge of data governance principles, tools, and best practices.
  • Strong communication, organizational, and project management skills.
  • Familiarity with data privacy and security regulations.

6. Data architects #


  • A bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant field, such as computer science, information systems, or data management.
  • Experience in data architecture, data modeling, or a related field.
  • Knowledge of data storage, integration, and processing technologies.
  • Strong problem-solving, analytical, and technical skills.
  • Familiarity with data governance principles and processes.

7. Business process owners #


  • A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as business, operations management, or a related discipline.
  • Experience in business process management, project management, or a similar role.
  • Strong understanding of the specific functional area they represent.
  • Knowledge of data governance principles and best practices.
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

  • A law degree or relevant legal qualification.
  • Experience in legal, compliance, or risk management roles.
  • Knowledge of data privacy and security regulations, as well as industry-specific laws and standards.
  • Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.
  • Familiarity with data governance principles and processes.

These role requirements should serve as a starting point when crafting job descriptions and hiring for your data governance team. Be sure to tailor them to your organization’s unique needs and priorities.

Rounding it all up #

An effective data governance program requires a team of professionals with a diverse range of skills and expertise. Here’s what we’ve covered in this blog:

  1. A data governance team is responsible for creating and implementing strategies, policies, and processes to ensure the organization’s data is accurate, consistent, secure, and available to the appropriate users. This includes tasks such as developing a data governance framework, ensuring data quality, managing data lineage and metadata, and ensuring data security and privacy, among others.

  2. The typical data governance team structure includes roles such as Data Governance Director/Manager, Data Stewards, Data Quality Analysts, Data Security, and Privacy Officers, Data Governance Analysts/Coordinators, Data Architects, Business Process Owners, and Legal and Compliance Officers. These roles work together to ensure effective data governance throughout the organization.

  3. When hiring for your data governance team, it’s essential to define role requirements, identify internal talent, develop a hiring strategy, leverage your network, post job openings, screen, and interview candidates, assess cultural fit, check references, offer competitive compensation, and provide onboarding and training.

  4. The role requirements for each position within the data governance team vary based on their responsibilities and the specific needs of your organization. These requirements generally include a mix of educational background, relevant experience, technical knowledge, and soft skills.

By understanding these key aspects, you’ll be better equipped to establish a strong data governance team and program within your organization, ultimately improving data quality, security, and accessibility for your data users.

Data governance with Atlan #

If you are evaluating and looking to deploy best-in-class data access governance for the modern data stack without compromising on data democratization? Do give Atlan a spin.

Atlan is a Third-generation data catalog built on the premise of embedded collaboration that is key in today’s modern workplace, borrowing principles from GitHub, Figma, Slack, Notion, Superhuman, and other modern tools that are commonplace today.

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