Data Governance Lead

Profectus Recruitment; England; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is seeking an experienced Data Governance Lead in England to own the external data governance strategy. Responsibilities include defining strategic direction, managing supplier relationships, and overseeing a substantial budget. Ideal candidates will have extensive experience in data governance and a strong understanding of legal requirements. Excellent communication skills are essential for this senior leadership role.

Qualifications

• Substantial experience in a senior or lead role within data governance, acquisition or strategy.
• Proven track record of delivering data governance or acquisition strategy.
• Strong understanding of data governance principles and legal requirements.

Responsibilities

• Define and lead the data governance and external data acquisition strategy.
• Act as the expert for external data governance across the organisation.
• Identify and acquire high-value datasets from third-party sources.

Skills

Experience in data governance

Commercial acumen

Supplier management

Excellent communication

Job description

Overview

Profectus are delighted to be working with a highly regarded organisation at the forefront of safety & intelligence research. They are currently looking to appoint an experienced Data Governance Lead to take full ownership of their external data governance and acquisition strategy.

This is a senior leadership role where you will be responsible for setting the direction of the data governance function and developing and delivering the overall strategy to ensure the business has access to the right external data sources. The ideal candidate will be a confident communicator, a strategic thinker, and experienced in building and managing supplier relationships.

The Role

As Data Governance Lead, you will play a pivotal role in building the business’s approach to external data acquisition and governance. Your remit will cover everything from strategy and stakeholder engagement to supplier negotiation and compliance.

Key responsibilities

• Setting Strategic Direction – Define and lead the organisation’s data governance and external data acquisition strategy, ensuring alignment with commercial and research objectives.
• Functional Leadership – Act as the go-to expert for external data governance, influencing direction and decision-making across the organisation.
• Sourcing External Data – Identify, evaluate and acquire high-value datasets from trusted third-party sources such as OEMs, insurers and data providers.
• Supplier & Contract Management – Build and maintain long-term supplier relationships. Lead on licence negotiations and contract renewals to maximise business value.
• Budget Responsibility – Manage a data acquisition budget of over £100,000, ensuring transparent and value-focused investment.
• Governance & Integration – Work with internal teams to ensure external data is compliant, well integrated and accessible across the organisation.
• Forward Planning – Anticipate future data needs, monitor emerging trends, and support innovation by identifying new sourcing opportunities.

What We’re Looking For

• Substantial experience in a senior or lead role within data governance, acquisition or strategy.
• A proven track record of developing and delivering a data governance or acquisition strategy.
• Strong commercial acumen, with experience managing suppliers, negotiating contracts and overseeing budgets.
• The ability to work cross-functionally and translate complex data needs into practical solutions.
• A strong understanding of data governance principles, legal requirements (e.g. GDPR) and the value of data in a commercial setting.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

If this sounds like a role you’re passionate about, please apply with an up-to-date version of your CV.