Data Governance Lead

  • University of Otago
  • New Zealand
  • Jul 14, 2026
  •  

    Job Description:

    __________

    STRATEGY, ANALYTICS AND REPORTING OFFICE (SARO) | KARU KAI-NŪKERE, RIKA PĀROKO

    The role | Te mahi

    This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in the ongoing maturity of the University of Otago’s data ecology.

    As Data Governance Lead, you will establish and lead the Otago's enterprise data governance service, working collaboratively with academic and professional staff, Digital Services, and senior leaders throughout the University.

    You will also be hands on, identifying and implementing required changes needed, facilitating discussions with diverse groups to implement pragmatic solutions, and strengthen the culture of accountability, stewardship, quality, transparency and trust in data-informed decision making.

    This is a highly visible role with the opportunity to make a lasting impact, influencing how data is governed, managed and used across one of New Zealand's leading universities.

    Key responsibilities include:
    • Developing and implementing the University's data governance framework.
    • Establishing policies, standards and governance processes.
    • Managing metadata and the enterprise data catalogue to mitigate data-related risks, including data quality, privacy and compliance.
    • Facilitating governance forums and supporting enterprise decision making.
    • Promoting a culture of responsibility and stewardship through guidance, training and stakeholder engagement.

    Your skills and experience | Kā pūkeka me kā wheako

    We're open to candidates from a range of backgrounds. You may already be working in data governance and looking for your next challenge, or you may bring experience leading change, process improvement, or other data-related initiatives.

    You'll bring:
    • Experience in data governance, data management, or a related discipline.
    • Experience developing frameworks, policies or organisational practices.
    • Strong relationship-building and stakeholder engagement skills.
    • The ability to influence, facilitate change and achieve outcomes through others.
    • A practical, hands-on approach and willingness to roll up your sleeves.
    • Excellent communication skills and sound judgement.

    Experience in the tertiary sector or public service environment is advantageous but not essential. We welcome applications from candidates with corporate experience who can adapt their expertise to a large and complex organisation.

    Further Details | Pūroko

    This is a full-time (37.5 hours per week), permanent position located in Ōtepoti, Dunedin.

    The University is offering a remuneration level commensurate with the responsibilities of the position.

    You must have the right to live and work in New Zealand to apply for this position.

    The University of Otago is a workplace that values and utilises diverse and inclusive thinking, people and behaviours. This means that we honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi and that the contributions of staff with diverse backgrounds, experiences, skills and perspectives are valued and respected.

    For further information regarding the role please contact Kevin Maley via the contact details below.

    Application | Tono

    To submit your application (including CV and cover letter) please click the apply button. Applications quoting reference number 2601058 will close on Sunday, 26 July 2026.

    Applications may be reviewed as submitted and candidates may be invited to interview immediately. The University reserves the right to close this vacancy at any time.

    Additional Information

    Contact: Kevin Maley

    Position details: Job Description

    Further Information: Department Website

    Create an email with a link to this vacancy: Create email

    Location: About Dunedin



    It's been a long time since Australian Universities had a choice when it comes to online job advertising, and there has never been a company so dedicated to assisting universities with achieving their talent acquisition goals. Welcome to Worldwide Talent Acquisition.

    We’ve launched the first of our talent acquisition products in Australia, Uni Roles. Through Uni Roles we will offer Australian Universities the ability to post all of their Academic, Professional, Research & Executive roles in one place, at an affordable rate.

    Uni Roles is part of the new evolution of online university job advertising. No longer do unis have to rely on basic job-boards to attract quality candidates. Our aim is to; provide universities with more market insights; candidates with more possibilities; and the higher education sector with a brand whose core values support the holistic promotion of academic excellence.

    We look forward to helping your university achieve its recruitment needs.

    Follow Us

    © 2014-2026 Powered by Worldwide Talent Acquisition Pty Ltd