Head of Data

About This Role

This leadership role focuses on transforming data into a trusted strategic asset for a global manufacturing leader. Reporting to the Digital Transformation Director, the Head of Data will build and operate a robust Data Governance and Data Management framework, bridging the gap between IT platforms and business priorities.

Responsibilities

• Set up and structure the enterprise Data Office, including recruiting resources and providing direct line management for a team of 3 to 5 data professionals (including a Data Project Manager and Adoption Manager)
• Build, lead, and develop the enterprise network of Business Data Stewards, managing approximately 20 functional reports across various business domains
• Define a strategic data roadmap alongside business stakeholders, ensuring strict alignment with AI use cases, as well as overarching SAP and PLM transformation programs
• Establish enterprise-wide data governance policies, data quality standards, and metadata management processes, including the Business Glossary and Data Dictionary
• Ensure the consistent management of critical business data across core enterprise applications, specifically working within a landscape that includes SAP S/4HANA, BW/4HANA, Salesforce, and Databricks

Requirements

• 8+ years of experience in Data Governance and Enterprise Data Management, including at least 5 years in a leadership role
• Strong expertise in managing data across multiple business domains and enterprise applications (SAP, Salesforce, Databricks, PLM)
• Proven ability to influence senior stakeholders, coordinate governance committees, and manage both direct teams and functional data stewardship networks
• Master's degree in Information Systems, Computer Science, Engineering, Business Information Management, or a related field
• Professional fluency in English

Nice to have:

• Professional proficiency in French
• Experience in process manufacturing, consumer goods, life sciences, or other complex B2B industrial environments
• Solid understanding of data governance regulations and compliance requirements, including GDPR

Benefits

• Performance bonus
• Meal vouchers
• Flexible compensation options (like childcare vouchers)
• Comprehensive life and accident insurance
• Shorter working days on Fridays
• Generous vacation time
• Supportive team atmosphere that respects time off

Important Details

• Contract: permanent from day one
• The Target & Challenge: Driving enterprise-wide data governance in an established, complex company requires exceptional change management skills. You will need to promote data literacy, build strong business partnerships to establish data ownership, and resolve cross-functional data quality issues smoothly.