The banking industry continues to evolve rapidly, with data emerging as one of the most strategic assets for decision-making, innovation, and compliance. In line with this transformation, the Bank is seeking to hire a Head of Data Governance within the Digital Business division. This position will be based in Nairobi and is designed for an experienced professional who can set the vision, strategy, and leadership framework for enterprise-wide data governance.
The successful candidate will be entrusted with ensuring that data is managed as a critical asset across the organization. By working closely with the Chief Data Officer (CDO), executive leadership, and business unit heads, the Head of Data Governance will be responsible for embedding data integrity, quality, security, and compliance throughout the Bank. This is a strategic role that requires both technical expertise and leadership capacity, as it will involve shaping policy at board and regulatory levels, influencing enterprise investments in data capabilities, and driving cultural change toward ethical and compliant data use.
This opportunity presents a chance for a seasoned professional to take on a leadership role in strengthening the Bank’s position as a leader in data governance and responsible data usage.
Job Purpose
The Head of Data Governance is accountable for creating, implementing, and overseeing an enterprise-wide strategy for data governance. The role ensures that policies, structures, and frameworks are effectively embedded to support data quality, compliance, and ethical usage across all areas of the Bank. By fostering collaboration and accountability, the role will enable the organization to maintain a strong reputation for responsible and compliant data management in the financial services sector.
Key Responsibilities
The responsibilities of the Head of Data Governance cover several core areas, including data governance framework development, program leadership, policy enforcement, monitoring, and organizational engagement. These responsibilities are broad and demand an individual with proven expertise in influencing senior stakeholders, managing enterprise-level programs, and aligning data practices with regulatory requirements.
Data Governance
- Develop and own the bank-wide Data Governance Framework, ensuring alignment with the Bank’s corporate vision and regulatory obligations.
- Lead the establishment and enforcement of enterprise data ownership, stewardship, and accountability structures.
- Create, document, and implement policies and standards that ensure the integrity, quality, security, and compliance of data.
- Promote and embed data literacy and accountability across the entire organization.
- Ensure governance initiatives are aligned with relevant regulatory requirements and frameworks, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Kenya’s Data Protection Act (DPA).
- Drive adoption of ethical data usage policies and frameworks for responsible artificial intelligence (AI) governance.
Governance Programs
- Lead data governance councils, working groups, and stewardship forums to build collective ownership of data responsibilities.
- Develop robust metadata management, master data management (MDM), and data lineage capabilities within the Bank.
- Design and implement measurable processes for data quality management, including the creation of key performance indicators (KPIs).
- Facilitate resolution of data-related issues, ensuring consistency and quality across business units.
- Establish standardized data definitions and drive alignment across different areas of the organization.
- Design and roll out continuous training and awareness initiatives to promote adherence to data governance policies.
Policy Enforcement and Monitoring
- Monitor organizational adherence to data governance policies and enforce compliance measures.
- Conduct regular data quality assessments and internal audits to ensure accuracy, security, and compliance.
- Oversee the implementation of role-based access controls to ensure proper handling of sensitive data.
- Manage data issue logs, perform root cause analyses, and coordinate the resolution of systemic issues.
- Produce regular data governance and compliance reports to meet both internal requirements and those of regulatory authorities.
- Introduce and maintain continuous improvement practices by incorporating feedback from audits, business units, and external stakeholders.
Key Duties and Functions
In addition to the primary responsibilities, the Head of Data Governance will be expected to:
- Shape enterprise policies and influence decision-making at senior levels.
- Build strong relationships with regulators, industry peers, and other stakeholders to strengthen the Bank’s leadership in data governance.
- Champion the adoption of advanced governance tools, technologies, and methodologies.
- Drive initiatives that encourage cultural change across the Bank toward recognizing data as an asset that requires consistent protection, maintenance, and ethical use.
- Oversee budgeting and resource allocation for governance initiatives, ensuring sustainability and scalability of programs.
Job Specifications
To deliver on the responsibilities of the role, the Head of Data Governance will be expected to demonstrate technical expertise, leadership ability, and strong stakeholder management skills. The specifications for the position are outlined below:
Academic Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Information Management, Computer Science, Business Administration, or a related field.
Professional Qualifications and Memberships
- Certified Data Management Professional (CDMP) is desirable.
- Data Management Capability Assessment Model (DCAM) certification is also considered desirable.
Work Experience
- At least 10 years of proven experience in data governance, data management, risk management, or related disciplines.
- A track record of influencing senior stakeholders, including C-level executives and regulators.
- Experience in managing enterprise-level governance programs with budgets of significant scale.
- Demonstrated background in the banking or financial services sector is highly preferred.
- Familiarity with advanced data governance tools, data catalogues, and data quality management platforms.
Competencies
The ideal candidate will bring a strong mix of technical competencies and leadership skills, including:
- In-depth understanding of data governance principles, lifecycle management, and regulatory requirements.
- Knowledge of data privacy laws, banking regulations, and compliance frameworks.
- Ability to manage relationships and collaborate across departments and functions.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the capacity to translate complex issues into actionable strategies.
- Clear and effective communication abilities, suitable for influencing senior leadership and regulatory authorities.
- Proven capability to drive cultural change within organizations, particularly around data ownership and accountability.
Application Process
Interested candidates who meet the requirements are invited to apply through the Bank’s official careers page. Applications should be submitted by visiting the website at www.imbankgroup.com/ke, navigating to the careers section, and applying directly for the advertised position.
The deadline for submission of applications is 27th August 2025. Applicants are encouraged to complete their submissions as early as possible to ensure consideration.
