Head of Master Data Management

IQVIA; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 1 000 000 - 1 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A global leader in drug discovery is seeking a Head of Master Data Management in Bloemfontein. This role involves leading the MDM strategy and governance to ensure data integrity across business units. The ideal candidate will have over 5 years in data management with leadership experience, strong SQL and Python skills, and a background in regulated industries. Fantastic opportunities for career growth and a collaborative environment await.

Benefits

Work-Life Balance

Continuous career development

Collaborative environment

Access to innovative technology

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in data management, with at least 2 years in a leadership role.
• Knowledge of database structures.
• A foundational grasp of AI and machine learning concepts.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead enterprise-wide strategy for master data governance.
• Ensure business data accuracy and accessibility across systems.
• Drive adoption of MDM practices and communicate value to leaders.

Skills

Data Management

SQL

Python programming

Project Management

Leadership

Problem-solving

Data Governance

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Data Management or related field

Tools

Cloud platforms

Data lakes

Job description

IQVIA Laboratories

IQVIA Laboratories is a global leader in drug discovery and development, offering comprehensive central and specialty biomarker services. Our expertise includes genomics, immunoassays, flow cytometry, anatomic pathology, precision medicine, vaccine assays, ADME, and bioanalytical services. We also specialise in antibody and biomarker discovery and decentralized clinical trial solutions. Committed to scientific rigor and operational excellence, we support all phases of drug development, ensuring high data integrity and accelerating transformative therapies.

Join us on our exciting journey!

Job Overview

The Head of Master Data Management (MDM) is responsible for developing and leading the enterprise-wide strategy for master data governance, quality, and stewardship. You will ensure that critical business data - such as sponsor details, warehouse database, test directory, etc. information, is accurate, consistent, and accessible across systems and departments. Establish and lead the MDM governance council across business units. Identify how AI can drive business value and align AI initiatives with the organisation's broader goals and roadmap. This involves understanding where AI can add the most value, such as in data quality or entity resolution, versus where traditional rules-based systems are more appropriate. Develop and enforce data standards, policies, and procedures. Support and manage remediation efforts across the network for Data Integrity. Implement data quality metrics and continuous improvement programs. Build and lead a high-performing MDM team including data stewards, data owners, and governance leads. Partner with business leaders to understand data needs and pain points. Drive adoption of MDM practices across departments and communicate the value of MDM initiatives to executive leadership.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Data Management, Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in data management, with at least 2 years in a leadership role.
• Knowledge of database structures.
• Knowledge of SQL, Python programming.
• Experience with cloud platforms and data lakes.
• A foundational grasp of AI and machine learning (ML) concepts (e.g., models, training data, supervised vs. unsupervised learning) to effectively communicate with technical teams and evaluate opportunities.
• Proven leadership skills. Outstanding problem-solving skills.
• Quality conscious with high degree of ethics and integrity carrying out duties in accordance to laws, regulatory standards, and with company policies and procedures.
• Have previous experience of leading key projects and demonstrated strong project management skills.
• Proven experience implementing enterprise MDM programs and technologies.
• Strong understanding of data governance, data quality, and metadata management.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience in regulated industries (e.g., pharma, finance, healthcare) is a plus.

Benefits Of Joining IQVIA

• Work-Life Balance, with a strong focus on a positive well-being.
• Continuous career development and growth opportunities.
• Variety of therapeutic areas.
• Collaborative and supportive team environment.
• Access to cutting-edge and innovative, in-house technology.