POSITION TITLE: Data Governance Specialist
DEPARTMENT: Northern Research Group (NRG)
CLASSIFICATION: MGO-09
SALARY RANGE: Starting at $100,815.00 Per Annum
POSITION TYPE: Permanent Full-Time
LOCATION: Saskatoon
ACCOUNTABLE TO: Senior Business Consultant
Brief Overview:
The Data Governance Specialist is responsible for supporting the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of the Métis Nation–Saskatchewan (MN-S) Data Governance Program. Reporting to Senior Business Consultant, this position will lead the coordination of data governance initiatives, policies, frameworks, standards, and processes that support Métis data sovereignty, privacy, security, stewardship, and evidence-informed decision-making across MN-S.
The Data Governance Specialist works collaboratively with departments, leadership, Information Technology, Registry, and program areas to strengthen data governance practices, improve data quality and accessibility, and support the implementation of the MN-S Data Strategy. The role supports the protection and responsible use of Métis Data while ensuring compliance with applicable legislation, policies, and governance requirements.
Key Responsibilities:
Data Governance Program Development
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Coordinate implementation of the MN-S Data Strategy and continued development and implementation of the Data Governance Framework.
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Assist in establishing and supporting data governance structures, including chairing the Data Governance Working Group and developing an operational Data Champions Network.
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Develop governance tools, templates, and guidance documents to support consistent data management practices across MN-S.
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Monitor implementation progress and prepare governance reports, recommendations, and briefing materials for leadership.
Data Stewardship and Data Management
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Lead development and maintenance of the MN-S enterprise data inventory.
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Work with departments to identify, classify, and document data assets, ownership, access permissions, retention requirements, and data quality standards.
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Support the assignment and documentation of Data Steward, Data Custodian, and Data Analyst responsibilities across departments.
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Develop and maintain data access request processes and governance workflows.
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Promote data quality, consistency, and integrity across organizational systems and datasets.
Policy, Privacy and Compliance
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Support the development, review, and implementation of data-related policies, procedures, and standards.
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Ensure data governance activities align with privacy legislation, organizational policies, and MN-S data governance principles.
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Assist with privacy impact assessments, data-sharing agreements, and governance reviews.
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Identify and mitigate risks related to data access, storage, use, retention, and disclosure.
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Maintain awareness of evolving privacy, information management, cybersecurity, and Indigenous data governance practices.
Data Capacity Building and Training
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Develop training materials and plain-language guidance related to data governance responsibilities and best practices.
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Deliver training and awareness sessions to leaders, staff, and data champions.
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Support onboarding processes related to data governance, privacy, and information management.
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Promote a culture of data stewardship and evidence-informed decision-making throughout MN-S.
Collaboration and Strategic Support
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Act as a subject matter resource on data governance matters.
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Collaborate with departments to identify data gaps, reporting needs, and governance requirements.
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Support enterprise initiatives related to data modernization, system implementation, census preparation, data repatriation, and performance measurement.
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Participate in cross-functional governance, policy, and strategic planning initiatives.
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Build relationships with external governments, organizations, researchers, and partners regarding data governance activities as required.
Knowledge and Skills:
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Knowledge of data governance principles, frameworks, and industry best practices.
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Understanding of privacy, confidentiality, records management, and information security principles.
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Knowledge of Indigenous Data Sovereignty principles and Métis governance is an asset.
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Strong analytical, organizational, and project management skills.
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Ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear and practical guidance.
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Strong facilitation, communication, and relationship-building abilities.
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Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently.
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Proficiency with Microsoft 365 applications, reporting tools, and data management platforms.
Qualifications:
Education
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Degree in Information Management, Public Administration, Data Analytics, Information Technology, Business Administration, Indigenous Governance, Social Sciences, or a related field.
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Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.
Experience
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Three to five years of experience in data governance, information management, privacy, records management, policy development, business intelligence, or a related field.
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Experience developing governance frameworks, policies, standards, or enterprise processes.
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Experience working with organizational data systems and databases.
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Experience supporting cross-functional projects and stakeholder engagement.
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Experience working in Indigenous organizations, governments, or community-based environments is considered an asset.
Additional requirements:
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A valid Saskatchewan driver’s license and/or access to reliable transportation to our downtown location would be required.
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The successful candidate must undergo a Criminal Record Check.
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The Travel requirement for this position is 5%
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Please submit your application by 11:59 PM on September 15, 2026.
Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
