VDOT Program Manager - Data and GIS Governance

TALENT Software Services; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

The Virginia Department of Transportation seeks a leader to drive data governance, GIS governance, and master data management across a large public organization. This role ensures high-quality data assets and supports enterprise decision-making and digital transformation.

Based in Richmond, VA, the position offers exposure to governance across enterprise data assets, with collaboration across business units and technical teams to advance data stewardship and governance maturity.

Qualifications

• Experience leading enterprise data programs in a large organization.
• Deep understanding of data governance frameworks and best practices.
• Proven ability to manage full data lifecycle within complex structures.
• Expertise in metadata management and building data documentation processes.

Responsibilities

• Participate in enterprise data governance framework, ensuring consistency and accountability.
• Oversee master data management efforts supporting mission-critical datasets.
• Champion data lifecycle best practices from creation to archival, ensuring regulatory and security alignment.
• Manage metadata standards, data dictionaries, and documentation practices.
• Drive remediation strategies for data quality issues with business and technical teams.
• Provide strategic direction for geospatial governance and ArcGIS platform integration.
• Support adoption of emerging data tools and platforms to keep VDOT modern and data-driven.
• Communicate complex data topics clearly to technical and non-technical audiences; develop guidance materials.
• Facilitate cross-functional working groups to align on data priorities and policies.

Skills

Data governance

Data lifecycle

Metadata management

Data quality

Executive communication

Cross-functional collaboration

Tools

ArcGIS

Job description

Position Overview

This position plays a critical role within VDOT's enterprise data management initiatives. It drives the strategy, coordination, and execution of data governance, GIS governance, and master data management activities across a large, complex organization. The role ensures VDOT's data assets are high-quality, well managed, properly stewarded, and leveraged effectively to support enterprise decision-making, operational efficiency, and long-term digital transformation goals.

The job is located in the vibrant city of Richmond, VA, offering a blend of historic charm and modern amenities. This location provides a dynamic environment for professionals seeking to make a significant impact in public service.

Key Responsibilities

• Participate in VDOT's enterprise data governance framework, ensuring consistency, accountability, and effective data stewardship.


• Oversee master data management efforts supporting mission‐critical datasets.


• Champion data lifecycle best practices — from creation and storage to archival — ensuring alignment with regulatory, operational, and security requirements.


• Manage and mature metadata standards, data dictionaries, classification systems, and documentation practices.


• Drive remediation strategies for data quality issues by collaborating closely with business units, technical teams, and subject matter experts.


• Provide strategic direction for geospatial governance, ArcGIS platform utilization, and integration of GIS capabilities into enterprise processes.


• Support adoption of emerging data tools, technologies, and platforms, ensuring VDOT remains modern, efficient, and data‐driven.


• Communicate complex data topics clearly to technical and non-technical audiences; develop training, guidance materials, and governance communications.


• Facilitate cross-functionally working groups, ensuring alignment on data priorities and policies.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience leading enterprise data programs within a large organization.


• Deep understanding of data governance principles, frameworks, and industry best practices.


• Proven capability in managing the full data lifecycle within complex organizational structures.


• Expertise in metadata management, data quality enhancement, and building sustainable data documentation processes.


• Strong problem‑solving skills with a track record of designing scalable processes and governance mechanisms.


• Ability to translate abstract or technically complex concepts into approachable, actionable insights.


• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for executive‑level and cross‑functional engagement.