Head of Data

Head of Data / Chief Data OfficerLocation: Remote (CST strongly preferred; must be willing to travel 25% or relocate)Industry: Banking / Financial ServicesTeam Scope: >100Reports To: Chief Information OfficerThe OpportunityOur client, a regional U.S. banking institution undergoing a major data transformation, is seeking a proven data leader to build and execute the institution's first cohesive enterprise data strategy. This leader will define the vision, establish credibility across business units, and drive delivery—turning an existing tool-heavy, project-centric environment into a data-driven, value-realizing, portfolio-based function.This is a highly visible, executive-level role requiring a mix of strategy, execution, governance, and modernization leadership. Ideal candidates have previously stood up (or rebuilt) an enterprise data capability in a regulated financial environment, and will know how to elevate data from a technical asset to a business growth engine.Key ResponsibilitiesEnterprise Data Strategy & ExecutionDevelop and own the bank's first enterprise-wide data strategy and operating model.Shift the organization from project-driven to portfolio-based prioritization and delivery.Establish business-facing data capabilities to support analytics, risk, product, and customer experience.Data Platforms, Architecture & ModernizationLead implementation and optimization of new data platforms including Master Data Management (MDM), Operational Data Store (ODS), and Enterprise Access Platform (EAP).Drive decoupling of legacy systems to reduce dependency and improve data agility.Lead tool rationalization: assess existing licenses, evaluate redundancies, and negotiate vendor contracts to maximize ROI.Governance, Quality & ComplianceBuild a modern data governance framework aligned with banking regulatory requirements (e.g. BCBS 239, OCC, FFIEC, privacy laws).Strengthen metadata, lineage, data quality, and stewardship programs across the enterprise.Leadership & TalentLead a growing data organization 100+ resources.Reduce third party dependency by building internal capability, process, and maturity.Serve as an executive ambassador, communicating data value across business units and the C-suite.Required Experience10–15+ years in data leadership roles, including ownership of enterprise data strategy and delivery.Prior experience in a regulated banking or financial services environment (must understand risk, compliance, regulatory reporting, governance).Successful track record of building or transforming a data function, not just inheriting a mature one.Experience leading large technical and business data teams.Hands-on leadership with modern data platforms such as MDM, ODS, cloud data architectures, data governance tools, enterprise integration platforms.Proven history reducing tech/tool sprawl, modernizing legacy platforms, and driving business value from data investments.Executive communication skills; able to influence C-level peers and present to Board/Regulators.Prior experience with Fiserv's core banking systems or similar financial institution core processing platformsPreferred AttributesKnown for credibility with the business—can speak in outcomes, not just technology.Able to balance "strategy and sleeves-rolled-up execution"; this is not a purely advisory role.Brings a repeatable playbook but adapts it to the client's culture, maturity, and constraints.EducationBachelor's degree required; Master's preferred (Data Science, Computer Science, Finance, Engineering, or related discipline).Certifications in data governance, architecture, cloud, or AI/ML a plus but not required.Success in This Role Will Look LikeEnterprise data strategy is defined, funded, and adopted within first 6–9 months.Shift from tools purchased → tools producing business value.Reduced reliance on high-cost contractors; internal data talent capabilities strengthened.Business units experience improved access, trust, and use of data.Regulatory and audit confidence increases through improved data quality and lineage.