Data Governance Specialist

About Us

The Ontario Cannabis Store provides safe, responsible access to recreational cannabis for adults 19 and older. We operate the sole legal online store for recreational cannabis in Ontario and are the provincial wholesaler of cannabis for private retail stores.

Working at the OCS is a unique opportunity to be part of an agile start-up in a ground-breaking new industry.  We’re a diverse team passionate about delivering a great customer experience, working together with mutual respect and building value out of our differences.  We’re an inclusive organization that understands that delivering great results comes out of ensuring every voice is heard.  

About the Role

We're looking for a Data Governance Specialist to join our team. In this role, you will support the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of OCS's data governance program by establishing and maintaining governance processes, standards, and controls that promote the quality, integrity, security, and effective use of organizational data. You will serve as the primary administrator and subject matter expert for Microsoft Purview's data governance capabilities, working closely with stakeholders across the organization to ensure compliance with data governance policies and standards while driving a strong data governance culture across the enterprise.

About Your Day

• Support the continuous improvement and maturity of OCS's enterprise data governance framework, including governance policies, standards, procedures, and controls.
• Partner with data owners and stewards to establish governance practices that ensure data accuracy, quality, security, integrity, and reliability.
• Support data classification, records management, metadata management, and role-based access controls aligned with least privilege principles.
• Define data quality, availability, integrity, and security requirements, and support the implementation of controls and governance KPIs.
• Maintain operational ownership of data governance processes, artifacts, workflows, and enterprise data assets.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to identify governance requirements, support stewardship activities, and promote governance best practices across the organization.
• Review projects and initiatives to ensure alignment with data governance standards and requirements.
• Serve as the primary administrator and subject matter expert for Microsoft Purview, including Data Catalog, Business Glossary, Data Lineage, metadata management, and related governance capabilities.
• Develop and maintain data lineage, enterprise metadata, business glossary, data catalog, and data marketplace capabilities to enhance data discoverability and understanding.
• Provide guidance, training, and support to stakeholders on Microsoft Purview and data governance practices.
• Partner with the Enterprise Data team to promote the effective, consistent, and compliant use of organizational data assets.
• Support GRC and Information Security initiatives, investigations, audits, compliance reviews, and continuous improvement activities.
• Assess adherence to data governance policies and controls, identify remediation opportunities, and provide recommendations to strengthen governance practices.
• Monitor and report on governance compliance, risks, controls, and program effectiveness to relevant stakeholders.

About You      

• Post-secondary degree in Information Management, Data Governance, Information Technology, Computer Science, Business Technology, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Certified Data Management Professional (CDMP) preferred; Microsoft Purview, Information Governance/Records Management, Data Privacy, or Information Security certifications are assets.
• 3+ years of experience in data governance, data management, information management, analytics governance, or a related field.
• Experience developing, implementing, and supporting data governance frameworks, standards, processes, and controls.
• Experience partnering with business stakeholders to establish governance responsibilities and improve data quality and stewardship practices.
• 1+ years of experience working with cloud-based technology solutions.
• Experience supporting enterprise data governance initiatives within a regulated environment preferred.
• Experience administering or configuring Microsoft Purview, including data cataloging, lineage, classification, information protection, and DLP capabilities, is an asset.
• Strong knowledge of data governance, metadata management, data quality, data lifecycle management, and governance metrics.
• Familiarity with records and information management practices, data privacy legislation, regulatory requirements, and enterprise data architecture concepts is an asset.
• Experience with Power BI, Azure Data Services, enterprise analytics platforms, and governance training/workshop facilitation is preferred.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, stakeholder management, facilitation, and communication skills, with the ability to translate technical concepts into business-friendly language.
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 applications, including Excel, Power BI, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

About the Job

• Location: Toronto, ON near York Mills and Yonge Street
• Hours of Work: 36.25 a week
• Employment Type: Permanent, Full-Time
• Required Travel: Rare, usually within the GTA

Compensation

The target hiring range for this position is $85,000- $100,000. This is a pay grade 6 role, with a salary range of $71,777.30 - $107,379.81. Placement in the salary range will be based on factors such as market conditions, internal equity, and candidate experience, skills, and qualifications relevant to the role.

We are committed to providing an accessible, equitable and inclusive candidate and employee experience. We provide reasonable accommodation throughout the recruitment process and in employment. If you require an accommodation, please let us know, we will work with you to meet your needs.