Manager, Data Governance Operations

Permanent Full Time 

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We are looking for a Manager, Data Governance Operations to lead the execution, scaling, and continuous improvement of enterprise data governance practices across Canada Life. This role is accountable for operationalizing governance frameworks, ensuring regulatory compliance, and driving adoption of trusted data practices across the data lifecycle.

As a key leader within the Enterprise Data Governance function, you will manage a team of governance professionals and act as a critical bridge between business, technology, and oversight functions. You will ensure that governance controls are practical, scalable, and embedded into day‑to‑day operations, enabling the organization to treat data as a strategic asset while managing risk effectively.

What you will do

Governance Framework & Operations

• Lead the execution and continuous improvement of Data Governance policies, standards, procedures, and guidelines.
• Operationalize governance across key domains: data access, data usage, retention & disposition, metadata, data quality and data anonymization.
• Ensure alignment with enterprise frameworks, including Three Lines of Defense (3LoD).
• Establish and monitor governance KPIs, controls, and reporting mechanisms to track program effectiveness and maturity.

Regulatory & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with applicable regulations and standards, including: PIPEDA, Quebec Law 25, OSFI B‑13, OSFI E‑21.
• Partner with Legal, Risk & Compliance, Privacy, and Security teams to interpret regulatory requirements and embed them into governance processes.
• Oversee and manage data risks, issues, and exceptions, including remediation planning and reporting.
• Ensure effective data de-identification, anonymization, and privacy controls are implemented and adhered to.

Leadership & Stakeholder Engagement

• Lead, coach, and develop a team of Data Governance professionals, driving accountability and delivery excellence.
• Partner with Data Owners, Data Stewards, and business stakeholders to drive adoption of governance practices.
• Deliver and oversee data governance training and enablement programs to improve data literacy and compliance.
• Translate complex governance concepts into clear, actionable guidance for business and technical audiences.

Program Delivery & Continuous Improvement

• Lead or support data governance initiatives and projects, ensuring timely and effective delivery.
• Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, scalability, and automation in governance processes.
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and accountability within the data governance function.

What you will bring

• 5–10 years of experience in data governance, data management, or related disciplines.
• 3+ years of leadership experience, including team management and stakeholder engagement.
• Strong experience in financial services or insurance environments.
• Deep knowledge of data governance domains, including data access and usage, data retention & disposition, data privacy, anonymization, and de-identification.
• Proven experience developing and implementing data governance policies, standards, guidelines and procedures.
• Strong understanding of regulatory frameworks (PIPEDA, Law 25, OSFI B‑13, OSFI E‑21).
• Experience working within the Three Lines of Defense model.
• Hands‑on experience with data governance tools (e.g., Informatica, Collibra, Microsoft Purview,).
• Experience delivering data governance training and stakeholder enablement programs.
• Strong project management experience, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and initiatives.
• Professional certification such as DAMA CDMP (or equivalent) preferred.
• Experience scaling enterprise-wide data governance programs
• Strong ability to balance control and enablement (governance without slowing the business)
• Experience integrating governance into modern data platforms
• Proven track record of driving adoption and cultural change in data governance
• Service – You act as a trusted advisor, enabling the business while protecting data assets.
• Execution – You deliver practical, scalable governance solutions that drive measurable outcomes.
• Leadership – You inspire, develop, and empower your team to perform at a high level.
• Collaboration – You build strong partnerships across business, technology, and oversight functions.
• Risk Awareness – You proactively identify and mitigate data risks while ensuring compliance

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The base salary for this position is between $95,000.00 - $130,000.00 annually. This represents base salary only and does not represent other variable compensation components of our total compensation ( i.e. annual bonus, commission etc). If you are selected to move forward in our recruitment process, your recruiter will be able to discuss additional details of our total rewards program with you.

Career opportunities will be open a minimum of 5 business days from the date of posting, closing dates will vary depending on the search activity. All applications received will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Grow with Canada Life 

We’re united by a shared purpose: to improve the financial, physical and mental well-being of Canadians. Our company is trusted by 1 in 3 Canadians and contributes to the strength of communities across the country.  

We’re looking for people who live our values everyday: we step up, we do the right thing, and we deliver – for our customers, communities and each other. Are you someone who always strives to do the right thing, who steps up for themselves and others, and who delivers with impact? Then we want to hear from you! 

What we offer:  

We’re committed to supporting our employees through every stage of their career. Here’s what you can expect as a full-time or part-time permanent team member: 

• Career Development: Opportunities for career advancement, access to industry-leading learning programs and up to $2,000 annually towards education reimbursement. 

• Health & Wellness: Flexible health and dental benefits, plus a $5,000 mental health benefit to support your well-being. 

• Time Off: In addition to regular vacation and personal days, we support community involvement with a volunteer day.  

• Financial Security: Company-matching pension plan, share ownership program and additional investment options. 

• Rewards and Recognition: Employee recognition programs, service milestone celebrations, employee discounts and more!  
• Emphasis on Community: We provide a workplace where employees feel connected and supported through Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), mentorship programs, social clubs and events.  

Learn more about Canada Life.  

We’re committed to removing barriers and ensuring equal access to employment. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation during the application process may contact  talentacquisitioncanada@canadalife.com. All information provided will be handled in accordance with applicable laws and Canada Life policies.  

Canada Life would like to thank all applicants, however only those who qualify for an interview will be contacted. 

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