At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead data governance operations and improve practices across Canada Life.
- Company: Join Canada Life, a trusted leader in financial services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, health benefits, education reimbursement, and flexible work options.
- Other info: Dynamic workplace with career growth and community involvement opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on data governance while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: 5-10 years in data governance with strong leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 95000 - 130000 € per year.
We are looking for a Manager, Data Governance Operations to lead the execution, scaling, and continuous improvement of enterprise data governance practices across Canada Life. This role is accountable for operationalizing governance frameworks, ensuring regulatory compliance, and driving adoption of trusted data practices across the data lifecycle.
As a key leader within the Enterprise Data Governance function, you will manage a team of governance professionals and act as a critical bridge between business, technology, and oversight functions. You will ensure that governance controls are practical, scalable, and embedded into day-to-day operations, enabling the organization to treat data as a strategic asset while managing risk effectively.
What you will do
- Governance Framework & Operations: Lead the execution and continuous improvement of Data Governance policies, standards, procedures, and guidelines. Operationalize governance across key domains: data access, data usage, retention & disposition, metadata, data quality and data anonymization. Ensure alignment with enterprise frameworks, including Three Lines of Defense (3LoD). Establish and monitor governance KPIs, controls, and reporting mechanisms to track program effectiveness and maturity.
- Regulatory & Risk Management: Ensure compliance with applicable regulations and standards, including: PIPEDA, Quebec Law 25, OSFI B-13, OSFI E-21. Partner with Legal, Risk & Compliance, Privacy, and Security teams to interpret regulatory requirements and embed them into governance processes. Oversee and manage data risks, issues, and exceptions, including remediation planning and reporting. Ensure effective data de-identification, anonymization, and privacy controls are implemented and adhered to.
- Leadership & Stakeholder Engagement: Lead, coach, and develop a team of Data Governance professionals, driving accountability and delivery excellence. Partner with Data Owners, Data Stewards, and business stakeholders to drive adoption of governance practices. Deliver and oversee data governance training and enablement programs to improve data literacy and compliance. Translate complex governance concepts into clear, actionable guidance for business and technical audiences.
- Program Delivery & Continuous Improvement: Lead or support data governance initiatives and projects, ensuring timely and effective delivery. Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, scalability, and automation in governance processes. Drive a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and accountability within the data governance function.
What you will bring
- 5–10 years of experience in data governance, data management, or related disciplines.
- 3+ years of leadership experience, including team management and stakeholder engagement.
- Strong experience in financial services or insurance environments.
- Deep knowledge of data governance domains, including data access and usage, data retention & disposition, data privacy, anonymization, and de-identification.
- Proven experience developing and implementing data governance policies, standards, guidelines and procedures.
- Strong understanding of regulatory frameworks (PIPEDA, Law 25, OSFI B-13, OSFI E-21).
- Experience working within the Three Lines of Defense model.
- Hands-on experience with data governance tools (e.g., Informatica, Collibra, Microsoft Purview).
- Experience delivering data governance training and stakeholder enablement programs.
- Strong project management experience, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and initiatives.
- Professional certification such as DAMA CDMP (or equivalent) preferred.
- Experience scaling enterprise-wide data governance programs.
- Strong ability to balance control and enablement (governance without slowing the business).
- Experience integrating governance into modern data platforms.
- Proven track record of driving adoption and cultural change in data governance.
What we offer:
- Career Development: Opportunities for career advancement, access to industry-leading learning programs and up to $2,000 annually towards education reimbursement.
- Health & Wellness: Flexible health and dental benefits, plus a $5,000 mental health benefit to support your well-being.
- Time Off: In addition to regular vacation and personal days, we support community involvement with a volunteer day.
- Financial Security: Company-matching pension plan, share ownership program and additional investment options.
- Rewards and Recognition: Employee recognition programs, service milestone celebrations, employee discounts and more!
- Emphasis on Community: We provide a workplace where employees feel connected and supported through Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), mentorship programs, social clubs and events.
We’re committed to removing barriers and ensuring equal access to employment. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation during the application process may contact talentacquisitioncanada@canadalife.com. All information provided will be handled in accordance with applicable laws and Canada Life policies.
Canada Life would like to thank all applicants, however only those who qualify for an interview will be contacted.
Manager, Data Governance Operations in London employer: Canada Life
Canada Life is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and professional growth of its employees. With a strong commitment to career development, flexible health benefits, and a supportive work culture, employees are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally. The company's emphasis on community involvement and employee recognition further enhances the workplace experience, making it an ideal environment for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in the data governance field.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Manager, Data Governance Operations in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the data governance space and let them know you're on the hunt for a Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of regulatory frameworks like PIPEDA and OSFI standards. Be ready to discuss how you've operationalised governance frameworks in past roles, as this will show you're the right fit for the job.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! When chatting with potential employers, highlight your experience in coaching teams and driving accountability. They want to see that you can inspire others while managing data governance effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our team at Canada Life, where we value those who step up and deliver.
We think you need these skills to ace Manager, Data Governance Operations in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in data governance and leadership. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Experience:When detailing your work history, focus on your hands-on experience with data governance tools and frameworks. We’re looking for someone who can operationalise governance practices, so share specific examples of how you've done this in the past.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to explain complex governance concepts, as we value communication skills just as much as technical expertise. Remember, clarity is key!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. This way, you’ll ensure it reaches the right people and you’ll have access to all the latest updates about your application status. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Canada Life
✨Know Your Governance Frameworks
Make sure you’re well-versed in the governance frameworks relevant to the role, like PIPEDA and OSFI standards. Brush up on how these regulations impact data management and be ready to discuss how you’ve applied them in past roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience, especially in managing teams and driving accountability. Think about specific instances where you’ve successfully led a project or initiative in data governance and how you engaged stakeholders.
✨Demonstrate Continuous Improvement Mindset
Be ready to talk about how you’ve identified opportunities for operational efficiency in previous roles. Share concrete examples of how you’ve implemented changes that improved data governance practices and drove cultural change within an organisation.
✨Engage with Real Scenarios
Anticipate scenario-based questions that test your problem-solving skills in data governance. Prepare to discuss how you would handle specific challenges, such as ensuring compliance while enabling business operations, and think through your approach to risk management.
