Data Governance Manager - #1802647

BUSINESS FUNCTION: IT

SALARY: Circa £60,000 per annum / ML2:SB1

ROLE TYPE:Hybrid

HOURS:37 per week

LOCATION: Leeds/York/Manchester

People come to Northern for trains they can rely on. Behind the scenes, it's data that keeps us on the right track. As our Data Governance Manager, you’d lead the charge in making sure our data is accurate, accessible, and used in the right way – so we can make smarter decisions, stay compliant, and keep things running smoothly for the millions of customers who travel with us each year.

Reporting into the Head of Data and Analytics, you’ll work with colleagues across the business to put the right frameworks in place to make sure data is treated as the strategic asset it is. From setting standards to improving data quality, you’ll be the go-to person for good governance and better data practices at Northern.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Shaping and rolling out our data governance framework – including policies, processes and standards.
• Leading on data quality, setting clear measures for accuracy, completeness, and consistency.
• Building a network of data owners across the business to embed strong data practices.
• Overseeing our data catalogue so people can find and use the information they need.
• Reviewing how we’re doing and finding ways to make our data governance even better.
  
  
  

About youYou don’t need to know rail, but you do need to know data.

Frameworks, policies and platforms – that’s your language. You’ll bring:

• Hands-on experience setting up or leading data governance in a complex organisation.
• Solid knowledge of data quality principles, metadata management and compliance (like GDPR).
• Familiarity with data governance tools or platforms.
• A clear, collaborative style – with the leadership and communication skills to bring people with you.
• Relevant qualifications or certifications in data governance are great to have, but not essential.
  
  
  

What’s in it for You?

At Northern, we don’t just value our people - we go the extra mile to support them. Here’s a taste of what you can look forward to:

• Free Travel: Unlimited free travel for you, your partner, and your dependents on Northern services. Plus up to 75% discount on other networks in the UK and Europe.
• Generous Pension Scheme: We top up your contributions by 1.5 times.
• Enhanced Family Benefits: We offer 9 months of full pay for maternity leave and 2 weeks for paternity leave.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Save up to 42% on a bike and spread the cost.
• Exclusive Discounts: From shopping to wellbeing, Northern Perks has you covered.
• Holiday Purchase Scheme: Buy up to 5 extra days of annual leave.
• Employee Assistance Programme: 24/7 support for family, lifestyle, and more.
• Training and Career Development: We offer tailored training to our colleagues and opportunities to gain recognised qualifications. Plus enhanced career pathways no matter what part of the business you’re in.
• Recognition: We know how important it is to show how much we appreciate our people. That’s why we have our Northern Lights and Northern Sparks Awards, recognising and celebrating brilliance every day.
  
  
  

Why Northern?

We’re more than just a train operator. We’re the heartbeat of the North - connecting communities, creating opportunities, and driving sustainable growth. With 2,500 trains running daily, we’re on a mission to improve rail travel and enhance the customer experience while protecting the environment.

Back in 1825, the first passenger train set off in the North of England, after which rail quickly spread across the globe - and this year, we’re celebrating 200 years of the modern railway. As we look back on the historic events that led us here, we also look towards the future as we move into the era of Great British Rail. Join us at this pivotal moment in rail history and play your part in our journey.

A place for Everyone

The best journeys happen when everyone feels welcome on board.

At Northern, we don’t just move people from A to B - we’re building a team where everyone feels they belong. Our talent team can make reasonable adjustments to the process if that’s something you need. We're also a Level 2 Disability Confident employer, so if you meet the minimum criteria for the role, we’ll always offer an interview.

We automate parts of our screening process to remove any unconscious bias and to make sure every application is treated fairly. All successful offers will be subject to a DBS check and medical assessment.

No matter your background, experience, or whether you call it a bap, barm, or cob… there’s a place for you here in the railway.

Please note that Northern reserves the right to close recruitment for this role before the published closing date, if high volumes of applications are received.