Role overview

A Data Steward plays a crucial role within an organization, overseeing the management, quality, security, and compliance of data assets. They act as custodians of data, ensuring that it is accurate, consistent, and available for authorized use. Data Stewards collaborate with various stakeholders across departments to establish and enforce data governance policies and procedures. Their responsibilities encompass data analysis, documentation, and resolving data-related issues.

Overall, a Data Steward plays a critical role in ensuring the integrity, security, and usability of an organization's data assets, thereby enabling informed decision-making and driving business success.

Key Responsibilities

• Data Governance: Develop and implement data governance strategies, policies, and standards to ensure data integrity, privacy, and security.
• Data Quality Management: Monitor and maintain data quality standards by identifying inconsistencies, errors, and redundancies, and taking corrective actions.
• Data Classification and Documentation: Classify data according to its sensitivity and importance, and maintain comprehensive documentation regarding data sources, definitions, and lineage.
• Data Compliance: Ensure compliance with relevant data regulations (e.g., GDPR, CCPA) and internal policies, and manage data access permissions and user roles.
• Data Analysis: Perform data analysis to identify trends, patterns, and insights, and provide recommendations for data-driven decision-making.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Collaborate with business units, IT teams, and other stakeholders to understand data requirements, address data-related challenges, and support strategic initiatives.
• Data Training and Communication: Conduct training sessions and workshops to enhance data literacy across the organization, and communicate data governance policies and best practices effectively.
• Data Security: Implement measures to safeguard data against unauthorized access, breaches, and cyber threats, and respond promptly to security incidents.
• Data Lifecycle Management: Manage the lifecycle of data assets from acquisition to disposal, ensuring proper storage, retention, and archival procedures.
• Continuous Improvement: Continuously assess and enhance data management processes, tools, and technologies to optimize efficiency and effectiveness.

Skills and Qualifications

• Strong understanding of data governance principles, practices, and regulations.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools and techniques, such as SQL, Excel, and data visualization tools.
• Knowledge of data management systems, database technologies, and data modeling concepts.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
• Attention to detail and analytical mindset to identify and resolve data issues.
• Ability to adapt to evolving business needs and regulatory requirements.
• Certification in data management or related field (e.g., Certified Data Management Professional, CDMP) is a plus.