Role Overview for VP, Data Governance with a Large Insurer – Hartford, CT
JRG Partners is proud to exclusively represent a premier, large-scale insurance provider in their search for a visionary and strategic Vice President of Data Governance. Located in the insurance hub of Hartford, CT, our client is at the forefront of leveraging data as a critical enterprise asset to drive innovation, optimize operations, and enhance customer experiences. In an industry undergoing rapid digital transformation, the effective governance of data is not just a compliance requirement but a significant competitive differentiator. This executive leadership role is a unique opportunity to shape the future of data management within a complex, data-rich environment.
The VP, Data Governance will be the principal advocate and leader for data governance across the enterprise. Reporting to the Chief Data Officer (CDO), you will be responsible for establishing the vision, strategy, and execution of a comprehensive data governance program. This program will ensure that data is treated as a strategic asset, with high standards of quality, security, and accessibility.
You will build and lead a dedicated team and collaborate extensively with executive leadership, business unit heads, IT architects, and legal and compliance teams to embed a culture of data stewardship and accountability throughout the organization. Your success will be measured by your ability to improve data quality, mitigate data-related risks, ensure regulatory compliance, and ultimately, unlock the full value of the company’s data assets to support strategic business objectives.
This is a transformative role that requires a leader who can balance strategic thinking with pragmatic execution. You will be the central point of contact for all data governance matters, providing guidance, fostering collaboration, and driving the adoption of data governance policies and standards. If you are a seasoned data leader with a passion for building robust governance frameworks in the financial services or insurance sector, we invite you to explore this challenging and rewarding opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Data Governance with a Large Insurer – Hartford, CT
Enterprise Strategy & Framework Development
Design, implement, and mature an enterprise-wide data governance framework, including the chartering of a Data Governance Council. Develop a multi-year roadmap that aligns with business priorities, technology capabilities, and the evolving regulatory landscape.
Policy and Standard Definition
Author, socialize, and enforce enterprise data policies, standards, and procedures. This includes defining standards for data quality, metadata management, data lineage, master data management (MDM), data classification, and data lifecycle management.
Data Stewardship Program Leadership
Establish and manage a federated data stewardship community across all major business and functional units. Provide comprehensive training, resources, and ongoing support to empower data stewards to be effective in their roles.
Data Quality Management
Institute a proactive data quality program. Define key data quality metrics (KQIs), establish monitoring dashboards, and oversee data profiling, cleansing, and remediation processes to ensure data is fit for purpose.
Regulatory Compliance and Risk Mitigation
Serve as the subject matter expert on data governance for regulatory and compliance purposes. Ensure adherence to regulations such as CCPA/CPRA, HIPAA, and state-specific insurance and privacy laws (e.g., NYDFS Cybersecurity Regulation). Partner closely with Legal, Compliance, and Information Security teams to manage data-related risks.
Metadata Management and Data Cataloging
Oversee the implementation and adoption of an enterprise data catalog and business glossary. Champion the documentation of critical data elements, business definitions, and data lineage to improve data discovery, understanding, and trust.
Technology Enablement
Lead the evaluation, selection, and implementation of data governance technologies and platforms. Ensure these tools are effectively integrated into the existing data ecosystem and drive value for the business.
Stakeholder Engagement and Communication
Act as a key change agent, effectively communicating the value and importance of data governance to stakeholders at all levels, from the C-suite to individual contributors. Build strong, collaborative relationships across the organization to foster a data-driven culture.
Performance Measurement and Reporting
Develop and maintain a set of key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness and maturity of the data governance program. Provide regular, insightful reporting to executive leadership and the Data Governance Council on program progress, challenges, and successes.
Requirements for the VP, Data Governance with a Large Insurer – Hartford, CT
Extensive Experience
A minimum of 12-15 years of progressive experience in data management, data strategy, or a related field, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership role specifically focused on data governance.
Industry Knowledge
Deep experience within the insurance or financial services industry is mandatory. A thorough understanding of insurance business processes, data domains (e.g., policies, claims, underwriting, actuarial), and associated regulatory requirements is critical.
Educational Background
Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Business Administration, or a related discipline. A Master’s degree (MBA or MS) is highly preferred.
Technical Proficiency
Expert-level knowledge of data governance frameworks and principles, such as those outlined in the DAMA-DMBOK. Hands-on experience with leading data governance tools and platforms (e.g., Collibra, Alation, Informatica Axon/EDC). Strong understanding of data architecture, data modeling, MDM, and data warehousing concepts.
Regulatory Acumen
Proven experience navigating complex data privacy and security regulations (e.g., GDPR, CCPA, GLBA).
Leadership & Influence
Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate cross-functional teams in a matrixed organization. Exceptional influencing, negotiation, and communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts to non-technical audiences and gain buy-in from senior executives.
Strategic and Analytical Mindset
Proven ability to think strategically, develop a clear vision, and execute against a tactical plan. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
Change Management Expertise
A successful track record of leading large-scale, transformative initiatives and driving cultural change within a complex corporate environment.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to investing in their employees and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive benefits package for this executive-level position, including:
Competitive Compensation
An attractive base salary, annual performance-based bonus, and a long-term incentive plan (LTI).
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
A full suite of medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents, along with robust wellness programs and resources.
Retirement Savings
A generous 401(k) plan with a significant company match to help you plan for your future.
Work-Life Balance
A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, paid company holidays, and comprehensive parental leave programs.
Professional Growth
A strong commitment to professional development, with opportunities for executive coaching, conference attendance, and tuition reimbursement for further education.
Flexible Work Environment
A hybrid work model offering a balance of in-office collaboration in the Hartford, CT office and remote work.
Additional Perks
Employee assistance programs, life and disability insurance, and other corporate discounts.
How to Apply
This is a retained search being conducted exclusively by JRG Partners. If you are a transformative data governance leader ready to make a significant impact within a leading insurance organization, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and qualifications for confidential consideration.
JRG Partners is a leader in connecting top-tier talent with exceptional opportunities in the technology and financial services sectors. To learn more about similar opportunities or to discuss your career goals with our expert recruiters, please visit our Technology Practice Area page. All inquiries and applications will be handled with the utmost confidentiality.
