Role Overview for VP, Data Governance with a Large Insurer – Chicago, IL
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, globally recognized insurance provider in their search for a visionary Vice President of Data Governance. Located in the vibrant heart of Chicago, IL, this executive leadership role is a pivotal opportunity to shape the future of data as a strategic enterprise asset. Our client, a titan in the insurance industry, is undergoing a significant digital transformation, and at the core of this evolution is the need for impeccable data integrity, security, and governance. The VP of Data Governance will be the principal advocate and authority for data governance, establishing the vision, strategy, and program that will empower the organization to leverage data for competitive advantage while ensuring strict regulatory compliance and risk mitigation.
Reporting directly to the Chief Data Officer (CDO), you will be entrusted with building and maturing a world-class data governance framework from the ground up. This is not merely a technical role; it is a strategic business function that requires a leader who can influence change, build consensus across diverse business units, and articulate the value of data governance to C-level executives. You will be at the nexus of business, technology, and compliance, collaborating with stakeholders in underwriting, claims, marketing, finance, IT, and legal to instill a culture where data is treated with the discipline and respect it deserves. Your leadership will directly impact the company’s ability to drive innovation, enhance customer experiences, personalize products, and optimize operations through trusted, high-quality data. If you are a passionate data evangelist with a proven track record of implementing successful data governance programs in complex, regulated environments, this role offers an unparalleled platform to make a lasting impact.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Data Governance with a Large Insurer – Chicago, IL
Strategic Framework Development
Design, implement, and oversee the enterprise-wide data governance strategy, framework, policies, and standards. Ensure the framework is aligned with business objectives, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices.
Leadership and Team Management
Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing data governance office (DGO). Foster a collaborative environment and provide guidance to a federated network of data stewards and data owners embedded within business units across the organization.
Policy and Standards Enforcement
Establish and enforce robust policies for data quality, data definition, data lineage, metadata management, and master data management (MDM). Develop and maintain a comprehensive enterprise business glossary and data dictionary.
Regulatory Compliance and Risk Management
Serve as the subject matter expert on data-related regulations (e.g., CCPA/CPRA, GDPR, NAIC Model Data Security Law). Partner with Legal and Compliance teams to ensure all data handling practices meet legal and ethical standards, minimizing risk and ensuring audit readiness.
Technology and Tooling Oversight
Lead the evaluation, selection, and implementation of data governance technologies, including data cataloging, data quality, and MDM platforms (e.g., Collibra, Alation, Informatica). Maximize the value derived from these technology investments.
Stakeholder Collaboration and Influence
Act as a primary liaison between technical and business teams. Build strong relationships with executive leadership and business stakeholders to champion the importance of data governance and drive adoption of governance principles and practices.
Metrics, Reporting, and Value Demonstration
Define and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to measure the effectiveness, maturity, and business value of the data governance program. Prepare and present regular progress reports to the CDO and other executive stakeholders.
Data Stewardship Program Maturation
Formalize and mature the enterprise data stewardship program. Provide training, resources, and a clear operational model to empower data stewards to effectively manage and improve data assets within their respective domains.
Master Data Management (MDM) Strategy
Define and drive the strategy for managing critical master data domains such as Customer, Product, Agent, and Provider, ensuring a single, authoritative source of truth to support critical business operations.
Cultural Change and Data Literacy
Develop and execute a comprehensive communication and training plan to foster a strong data-driven culture. Promote data literacy and awareness of data governance principles across all levels of the organization.
Requirements for the VP, Data Governance with a Large Insurer – Chicago, IL
Executive Experience
A minimum of 12-15 years of progressive experience in data management, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership role specifically focused on data governance, data strategy, or data architecture.
Industry Expertise
Deep experience within the insurance (P&C, Life & Health) or financial services industry is strongly required. A thorough understanding of insurance-specific data domains and associated regulatory complexities is critical for success.
Educational Background
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Management, Business Administration, or a related field. A Master’s degree (MBA or MS) is highly preferred.
Technical and Framework Proficiency
Expert knowledge of data governance principles and frameworks like the DAMA-DMBOK (Data Management Body of Knowledge). Hands-on experience with leading data governance, data quality, and MDM tools is essential.
Proven Leadership
Demonstrated ability to lead large-scale, cross-functional initiatives and effect organizational change. Proven experience building and managing teams of data professionals.
Regulatory Acumen
In-depth knowledge of data privacy and security regulations (e.g., GDPR, CCPA, HIPAA) and their application in a corporate environment.
Communication and Influence Skills
Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills. The ability to articulate a compelling vision for data governance and influence stakeholders at all levels, from technical analysts to the Board of Directors.
Strategic Mindset
Strong strategic thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills. Ability to translate complex data concepts into tangible business value and strategic roadmaps.
Certifications
Professional certifications such as Certified Data Management Professional (CDMP) or Certified Information Governance Professional (CIGO) are highly desirable.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to investing in their employees and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive benefits package, recognizing that their success is driven by the talent and well-being of their team. This includes:
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary, annual performance-based bonus, and long-term incentive plan.
Comprehensive Health and Wellness
Premier medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents, along with generous wellness programs, and mental health support resources.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) retirement plan with a significant company match to help you secure your financial future.
Generous Paid Time Off
A substantial paid time off (PTO) package, including vacation, sick days, and company holidays, to promote work-life balance.
Professional Development
A strong commitment to your growth, with a budget for professional development, including conferences, certifications, and continuing education.
Hybrid Work Model
A flexible, hybrid work arrangement that combines in-office collaboration in their modern Chicago headquarters with the convenience of remote work.
Parental Leave
Comprehensive paid parental leave policies to support growing families.
Additional Perks
Commuter benefits, employee assistance programs, and corporate discounts.
How to Apply
This is a confidential search being conducted exclusively by JRG Partners. If you are a visionary data leader ready to accept the challenge of defining and executing the data governance strategy for an industry leader, we strongly encourage you to apply. Your expertise will be critical in unlocking the full potential of data and driving the next phase of growth for our client.
To be considered for this exceptional opportunity, please submit your resume and a detailed cover letter outlining your relevant experience and qualifications for the VP, Data Governance role. For more information on similar executive search opportunities within our technology and data practice, we invite you to visit our Data & Analytics Practice Area page.
