Manager: Data Architecture & Governance

SUMMARY:

Our client is looking for an experienced Engineering Manager: Data Architecture Governance to lead the implementation of scalable, secure, and governed data architecture strategies across the organisation. This is a senior leadership role that balances deep technical expertise with cross-functional collaboration and long-term d...

POSITION INFO:

Our client is looking for an experienced Engineering Manager: Data Architecture Governance to lead the implementation of scalable, secure, and governed data architecture strategies across the organisation. This is a senior leadership role that balances deep technical expertise with cross-functional collaboration and long-term data governance planning.

In this role, you’ll oversee a team of Data Architects, collaborating closely with IT, business, and data governance teams to ensure data is structured, secure, and accessible for business decision-making. You'll be responsible for aligning enterprise data architecture with governance frameworks, ensuring compliance, scalability, and business value.

 

What you’ll do:

• Design, Define and maintain a secure, scalable enterprise data architecture aligned with business and technology strategies
• Oversee the development of enterprise data models, data standards, and metadata practices
• Lead and mentor a team of Data Architects to deliver data-driven outcomes
• Ensure compliance with internal governance frameworks and external regulations (e.g., POPIA, GDPR)
• Collaborate with IT and security teams to enforce data governance initiatives
• Establish and maintain data quality programs and stewardship practices
• Drive effective data lifecycle management and retention strategies
• Support integration of cloud and on-premise data solutions for seamless system interoperability
• Provide strategic insights on emerging data technologies and tools to enhance capability
• Advocate for a consistent and compliant data culture across all business units

Your expertise:

• 6+ years’ experience in data architecture, governance, or a related discipline
• Minimum 2 years in a leadership or management role
• Expertise in data modeling, warehousing, and metadata management
• Experience with enterprise data governance frameworks (e.g., DAMA DMBOK)
• Strong knowledge of SQL, NoSQL, and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or GCP)
• Familiarity with ETL tools, data cataloguing, and data classification strategies
• Understanding of compliance and data security standards (POPIA, GDPR)
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical teams and partner with business stakeholders
• Excellent communication skills to bridge technical and business priorities

Key competencies:

• Technical Strategic Thinking: Aligns data strategies with long-term business goals
• Business Acumen: Understands commercial impact of data architecture decisions
• Collaboration Communication: Builds strong relationships across technical and non-technical teams
• Technical Leadership: Guides architectural best practices and data governance adherence
• Adaptability: Evolves architecture and governance in response to a dynamic business landscape
• Retail Awareness: (Optional) Familiarity with retail operating models is a plus

Other information applicable to the opportunity:

• Permanent Position
• Location: Cape Town - Hybrid (4 day per week)