Role Overview
The Enterprise Data Director (externally referred to as Chief Data Officer – CDO) is a senior strategic role responsible for defining, implementing, and evolving the client’s global data strategy. The role ensures data is treated as a core corporate asset, driving value creation, operational excellence, innovation, and readiness for AI at scale.
This includes leading enterprise-wide initiatives in data governance, quality, architecture, and literacy, while fostering a data-driven culture across functions and geographies.
Reporting Line
- Reports to: Global IT Director (CIO)
- Direct Reports: Leads covering Data Governance, Data Architecture, Data Quality, Global Technology CoE Data & Analytics, D&A Service Delivery, and Technical Integration.
Key Responsibilities
Data Strategy & Leadership
- Develop and execute a global data strategy aligned to business goals and digital transformation priorities.
- Define the target data operating model, including enterprise roles, responsibilities, and capabilities.
- Build and mentor a high-performing data team.
- Maintain a forward-looking view on industry trends to keep the strategy competitive.
Data Governance, Quality, Security & Privacy
- Establish and enforce enterprise-wide governance policies, standards, and ownership rules for structured and unstructured data.
- Ensure data accuracy, consistency, and compliance with relevant regulations (e.g., GDPR).
- Promote cross-functional collaboration to maximise data value.
- Embed privacy-by-design principles, data protection measures, and retention policies.
Data Architecture & Platforms
- Design and maintain a scalable, hybrid data architecture to support analytics, AI, and advanced use cases.
- Oversee selection and implementation of data platforms and tools in alignment with global technology strategy.
- Ensure interoperability with enterprise systems (e.g., ERP, CRM, operational platforms).
- Manage external partners for cost-effective, high-quality delivery and support.
Business Partnership & Adoption
- Act as a champion for data as a corporate asset, driving adoption of best practices and self-service analytics.
- Enable data literacy programs and embed data-informed decision-making across the business.
- Lead readiness for AI adoption, ensuring high-quality, accessible data assets.
- Identify opportunities to monetise or repurpose data assets for efficiency or new revenue streams.
Required Experience & Skills
Must Have:
- Extensive experience in enterprise data management within large, complex global organisations.
- Proven track record in building and scaling governance, quality, and architecture capabilities.
- Strong leadership skills and experience driving enterprise-wide adoption.
- Clear communicator able to translate technical concepts for varied audiences.
Preferred:
- Experience in CPG, retail, or similarly complex data environments.
- Familiarity with modern data platforms (e.g., Snowflake, Azure, GCP) and master data tools.
- Exposure to AI/ML, Generative AI, and emerging data technologies.
Education
- Master’s degree in Business, Data Science, Information Systems, or a related field.
