We are seeking a GRC Data Governance Manager to lead and mature our data governance program in the United Arab Emirates. The successful candidate will drive enterprise data governance frameworks, ensure compliance with regional and global regulations, and implement best practices for data classification, quality, privacy impact assessments, and lifecycle management. This role requires a strategic thinker with deep technical expertise and proven non-technical collaboration skills.

• Develop, implement, and maintain an enterprise data governance framework aligned with business objectives and regulatory requirements
• Lead data classification initiatives to ensure accurate labeling and protection of sensitive information
• Oversee data quality management processes, including defining metrics, monitoring data integrity, and driving remediation efforts
• Conduct privacy impact assessments (PIAs) and ensure adherence to privacy laws and internal policies
• Define and manage data lifecycle processes from creation through archival and disposal
• Collaborate with legal, compliance, IT, and business stakeholders to ensure regulatory compliance (e.g., UAE PDPL, GDPR)
• Monitor and report on data governance metrics and KPIs to senior management
• Provide training, guidance, and support to teams on data governance policies and procedures

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Management, Business Administration, or related field
• 7–10 years of experience in data governance, GRC, or related roles
• Proven technical expertise in enterprise data governance frameworks and tools
• Demonstrated experience with data classification and metadata management
• Hands-on experience in data quality management, including profiling, cleansing, and monitoring
• Practical knowledge of Privacy Impact Assessments and data protection principles
• Solid understanding of data lifecycle management and retention policies
• Strong knowledge of regulatory compliance requirements (e.g., UAE PDPL, GDPR) and ability to translate them into technical and operational controls
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills

• Master’s degree in Information Governance, Data Science, or related discipline
• Professional certifications such as DGSP, CIPM, CIPP/E, or CRISC
• Experience working within the UAE or broader Middle East regulatory environment
• Familiarity with leading data governance and metadata management tools (e.g., Collibra, Alation)
• Project management certification (PMP, Prince2) or experience leading cross-functional projects