At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the establishment of data governance and enable AI capabilities in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join a global talent solutions business that embraces innovation and technology.
- Benefits: Flexible homeworking, competitive pay, and a chance to shape governance frameworks.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a fast-paced, outcome-focused role.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by establishing foundational governance for data and AI.
- Qualifications: Experience in data governance and familiarity with Microsoft Purview is essential.
The Data & AI Governance Lead (Contract) is responsible for establishing the foundational data governance capability and handing over a fully operational governance function to a permanent Data Governance Manager at the end of the contract. This is a time-boxed, outcome-focused role, accountable for standing up the working governance components required to support:
- Clear data ownership and stewardship accountability
- Effective governance collaboration and decision-making
- Activation of Enterprise Microsoft Purview (E5 licence level) as a governance enabler
- A safe and governed rollout of M365 Copilot
The role does not own long-term data strategy or business-as-usual operations.
Scope & operating context
- Operates as a hands-on governance lead, not a delivery team
- Works across data & AI, security, M365, and business domains
- Focused on enablement and guardrails for federated ownership, not central control
Success is measured by what is live, adopted, and ready to scale by month 6.
Key responsibilities:
- Establish minimum viable Data & AI Governance Framework (aligned to DMBOK-DAMA principles)
- Establish formal Data Ownership & Stewardship frameworks
- Establish & Run the Data & AI Governance Forum
- Identify Data Domains & Critical Data
- Evaluate and activate Microsoft Purview (E5) for M365 data
- Support governance readiness for M365 Copilot
- Define governance KPIs and deliver structured handover
Skills & Experience
Essential:
- Demonstrable experience establishing data governance in large organisations
- Practical experience with Microsoft Purview (or equivalent)
- Strong understanding of data ownership, stewardship, and federated models
- Experience working across M365, security, and business teams
- Strong stakeholder engagement across technical and business teams
Highly desirable:
- Experience supporting M365 Copilot or AI enablement
- Experience working in federated or domain-led data models
- Background in regulated or infrastructure-heavy environments
Contractor profile & approach:
- Pragmatic, delivery-focused, and outcome-driven
- Comfortable operating with incomplete information
- Avoids over-engineering or 'perfect' frameworks
- Leaves behind working capability, not just documentation
What Success Looks Like at Contract end:
- A credible, functioning data governance foundation
- Microsoft Purview is actively supporting visibility and control
- M365 Copilot can be deployed with confidence in data safety
- The organisation is set up to scale governance sustainably
Data & AI Governance Lead in London employer: MORGAN PHILIPS UK LIMITED
Morgan Philips Group is an exceptional employer that champions innovation and inclusivity, offering a dynamic work culture where employees can thrive. With a focus on employee growth and development, this role as Data & AI Governance Lead provides the opportunity to make a significant impact while working flexibly from home, ensuring a healthy work-life balance. Join a forward-thinking team that values your contributions and supports your professional journey in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
