Overview
The Global Head of Data Risk Management is a pivotal senior leadership role within Vanguard’s Global Risk and Security (GR&S) division. As a key steward of enterprise data integrity, the Global Head of Data Risk Management will champion the Second Line of Defense function—setting the vision and framework to define, measure, and monitor data risk, while consolidating insights into a unified enterprise-wide view.
As the leader of this function, you will provide independent oversight and credible challenge to enterprise data governance frameworks, ensuring transparency in data lineage, quality, and interpretation. This is a multi-year journey toward achieving best-in-class data governance across the organization—an opportunity to shape the future of data risk management at scale.
Why Join Us
You’ll play a critical role in shaping Vanguard’s data governance strategy, working alongside senior leaders to strengthen risk management practices and safeguard the integrity of our data ecosystem.
Responsibilities
- Set framework and direction for credible challenge to the overarching enterprise data governance frameworks, policies, standards, roles, accountabilities, and initiatives established to identify, govern, and manage data risk of the organization.
- Provide overall data risk management direction and vision, including scoping decisions and prioritization.
Act as an escalation point to senior management for data risk. - Participate, and represent 2nd line Operational Risk Management, in key governance forums and committees up to and including board level risk committees. Provide input into operational risk framework program and policy development.
- Facilitate adherence to Operational Risk and policy requirements through championing proper usage of tools for risk management and participation in oversight programs.
- Track the overall data management strategy and program roll out and provide feedback from a risk management perspective.
- Establish and maintain a global data risk taxonomy and risk appetite framework, ensuring alignment with enterprise risk management principles.
- Develop and oversee key risk indicators (KRIs) and metrics to monitor data risk exposure across business units and geographies.
- Drive integration of data risk considerations into enterprise-wide risk assessments, regulatory compliance programs, and strategic initiatives.
- Partner with technology, operations, and business leaders to embed data risk controls into system design, data architecture, and transformation projects.
- Champion a culture of data risk awareness, designing training and communication programs for senior leaders and associates globally.
- Oversee remediation strategies for material data risk events, ensuring timely escalation and resolution in line with governance standards.
- Collaborate with internal audit and compliance teams to validate effectiveness of data risk controls and governance frameworks.
- Shape the roadmap for data risk technology enablement, including automation, analytics, and reporting tools to enhance oversight capabilities.
- Deliver insights from monitoring and reporting of the management of data risks to senior stakeholders across the organization.
- Lead the development and maturation of the independent data risk management function.
- Providing direction and guidance to junior team members.
Qualifications
- Minimum of 10 years of experience in financial services, with at least 7 years in senior leadership roles focused on data management, data governance, data quality, or data strategy. Supervisory experience required.
- Undergraduate degree or equivalent combination of training and experience. Advanced degree (MBA, MS in Data Management, Risk, or related field) preferred.
- Proven track record of building and leading high-performing teams, including hiring, mentoring, and managing performance.
- Deep understanding of data risk principles, governance frameworks, and operational risk management within complex, global organizations.
- Exceptional communication and executive presence, with the ability to distill complex risk concepts into clear, actionable insights for senior leadership and Board audiences.
- Strong influencing and collaboration skills, with experience engaging across functions such as Compliance, Finance, Technology, and Operations.
- Proficiency in data analysis and visualization tools, including advanced Excel (pivot tables, formulas) and experience with BI tools (Tableau, Power BI) to create compelling dashboards and reports.
- Demonstrated ability to engage with regulators, auditors, and external partners, including preparation of Board-level materials and participation in governance forums.
- Strategic mindset with hands-on capability, able to balance long-term vision with practical execution in a fast-paced environment.
- Knowledge of regulatory requirements and compliance standards impacting data governance in financial institutions.
- Relevant certifications (CDMP, DCAM) a plus.
Special Factors
Sponsorship
Vanguard is not offering visa sponsorship for this position.
About Vanguard
At Vanguard, we don't just have a mission—we're on a mission.
To work for the long-term financial wellbeing of our clients. To lead through product and services that transform our clients' lives. To learn and develop our skills as individuals and as a team. From Malvern to Melbourne, our mission drives us forward and inspires us to be our best.
How We Work
Vanguard has implemented a hybrid working model for the majority of our crew members, designed to capture the benefits of enhanced flexibility while enabling in-person learning, collaboration, and connection. We believe our mission-driven and highly collaborative culture is a critical enabler to support long-term client outcomes and enrich the employee experience.