Lead Data Manager

Hatchit Studios; Melbourne; Hybrid; AUD 140,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Hatchit Studios is seeking a seasoned Lead Data Manager to strengthen data governance, assurance and responsible AI use across federal initiatives. You will shape frameworks, assess risks and provide strategic guidance to senior stakeholders while promoting transparent data practices.

The role focuses on lifecycle data management, policy development and effective cross‑functional collaboration, with hybrid work following initial onsite onboarding.

Qualifications

• Experience in Data Governance, Data Management or Data Assurance within large, complex organisations.
• Knowledge of AI Governance and Responsible AI practices.
• Strong understanding of data privacy, security and regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities

• Lead data governance and assurance activities across data and AI-enabled initiatives.
• Assess data management, privacy, security and ethical risks with practical mitigations.
• Develop and enhance data governance frameworks, policies and procedures.

Skills

Data governance

Data management

Data assurance

AI governance

Data ethics

Data quality

Metadata management

Data lifecycle

Stakeholder engagement

Executive reporting

Leadership

Mentoring

Tools

Data analytics tools

Scripting

Job description

Lead Data Manager – Data Governance & AI Assurance

Location: Canberra, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Hobart, Cairns or Robina (Hybrid – Initial 6 Weeks Onsite)

Contract Duration: 12 Months | Potential Extensions up to 24 Months

Expected Start Date: January 2027

Security Requirement: Must have or be able to obtain Baseline Security Clearance

About the Opportunity

Hatchit Studios is seeking an experienced Lead Data Manager to support a major Federal Government agency in strengthening its data governance, data assurance and ethical use of data across complex initiatives, including emerging Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies.

This role will focus on developing and enhancing data management frameworks, assessing data governance and ethical risks, and ensuring data is managed responsibly throughout its lifecycle.

The successful candidate will work closely with senior stakeholders, providing strategic advice on data assurance, privacy, security and responsible AI adoption while promoting best practices across the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead data governance and assurance activities across complex data and AI-enabled initiatives.
• Assess data management, privacy, security and ethical risks, providing practical recommendations and mitigation strategies.
• Develop and enhance data governance frameworks, policies, processes and assurance practices.
• Support responsible AI adoption by promoting transparency, explainability, accountability and ethical data use.
• Provide expert advice on data access, classification, collection, integration and lifecycle management.
• Establish and maintain data quality, integrity, validation and assurance processes.
• Develop data management documentation, standards and procedures aligned with government requirements.
• Prepare executive briefs, recommendations and presentations for senior leadership and governance committees.
• Collaborate with technical and business stakeholders to improve data management capabilities and practices.
• Mentor team members and promote a culture of effective data governance and responsible data management.

Skills & Experience Required

• Extensive experience in Data Governance, Data Management or Data Assurance within large, complex organisations.
• Strong understanding of data governance frameworks, risk-based assurance methodologies and data management principles.
• Demonstrated knowledge of AI Governance, Data Ethics and Responsible AI practices, including emerging AI risks.
• Expertise in data quality management, data integrity, classification, metadata management and data lifecycle processes.
• Experience developing and implementing data governance policies, standards and organisational frameworks.
• Strong understanding of data privacy, information security, regulatory compliance and ethical data use.
• Experience with data collection methodologies, data analytics tools and scripting or programming for data collection.
• Proven ability to assess complex data initiatives, identify risks and provide strategic recommendations.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement, communication and executive-level reporting skills.
• Demonstrated leadership experience, including coaching, mentoring and supporting multidisciplinary teams.
• Previous experience working within Australian Federal Government or similarly regulated environments will be highly regarded.

Why Apply?

• Contribute to high-impact Federal Government data governance and responsible AI initiatives.
• Competitive contract rates based on experience and expertise.
• Long-term contract opportunity with potential extensions.
• Opportunity to influence enterprise data governance, assurance and ethical AI practices.
• Flexible hybrid working arrangements following an initial onsite period, subject to approval.
• Work alongside experienced professionals on complex, nationally significant initiatives.