Associate Director - Data & AI Governance

Associate Director - Data & AI Governance

As Associate Director in our Data & AI Governance Capability, you will report directly to the Capability Lead. You will be responsible for managing a portfolio of client engagements, ensuring they are delivered successfully, commercially viable, and aligned to our reputation for excellence. This is a senior leadership and advisory role, combining governance expertise with commercial accountability, stakeholder management and team leadership.

What You'll Do

• Take accountability for a portfolio of Data & AI Governance engagements, ensuring they are delivered to scope, on time, within budget, and to high standards of quality
• Lead scoping and planning activities for new client engagements, translating business challenges into structured programmes of work
• Subject Matter Expert for Data & AI Governance, providing expert advisory to clients and guiding solution builds from a governance and operating model perspective
• Support short, medium, and long-term engagements with clear oversight and adaptability to shifting priorities
• Provide RAG reporting and performance updates for all engagements under your ownership, escalating risks and managing mitigation strategies
• Proven track record designing and rolling out governance operating models, such as data offices, data steward councils, and governance boards, defining clear roles and responsibilities for all stakeholders
• Strong background in policy management, with the ability to craft, implement, and enforce data governance policies aligned to regulatory requirements (GDPR, CCPA, Consumer Duty, BCBS 239, EU AI Act) and industry best practices
• Demonstrated success standing up data offices or similar governance centres of excellence, ensuring robust collaboration with IT, business units, and executive leadership

What Success Looks Like

• Delivered multiple high-impact governance engagements with outstanding client feedback
• Achieved commercial KPIs across portfolio and individual targets
• Built new frameworks, IP, and artefacts now embedded across clients
• Recognised as the go-to expert for Data & AI Governance internally and externally

What You'll Bring

• Significant proven background in data governance / information governance, including leading major programmes
• Significant experience in a leadership role (portfolio, line management, or practice building)
• Proven expertise in governance operating models, policies, and frameworks
• Strong commercial acumen with portfolio-level financial management experience
• Ability to engage confidently with executives and CDOs on governance strategy
• Passion for mentoring and developing talent
• Data Management certifications (e.g., DAMA, CDMP)

Why Join Us?

This is your chance to shape the future of Data & AI Governance, lead strategic programmes with global impact, and influence decision making at the highest levels. As an Associate Director, you'll combine delivery leadership with subject matter expertise-helping clients build trust, resilience, and long term value from their data and AI.

Hybrid: London (Mansion House) 2 days in the office