Data Governance Interview with Jane Meharg

Welcome Jane Meharg to the Data Governance Interview!

Please can you give us an intro, Jane?

I spent 20 years honing my analytical and stakeholder skills in the buying and merchandising sectors. While I've always This changed when I earned a Distinction in the Fast Track to Data Analyst qualification at the London School of Economics two years ago. This accomplishment opened doors for me, and I was fortunate enough to secure a position as a Data Quality Analyst at the King's Trust, which was just beginning its data analysis journey at the time.

Born deaf, I have faced numerous challenges throughout my life. However, my supportive family always advocated for me, ensuring that I had the same opportunities as everyone else, effectively levelling the playing field. Motivated by my desire to support those who haven't been as fortunate, I sought to work for an organization whose values aligned with my own. This led me to the King's Trust, where I am passionate about implementing Data Governance to drive positive change.

How long have you been working in Data Governance?

Officially, I’ve been working in Data Governance for 4 months. However, as a Data Quality Analyst, I have been supporting Data Quality Objectives within Data Governance for the past 2 years (even if I didn’t recognise that!).

How did you get into Data Governance?

It happened by accident! I started as a Data Quality Analyst. A year ago, when my original manager, who initiated Data Governance, left, I had no interest in the field. My subsequent manager struggled to gain stakeholder buy-in. Meanwhile, I delved into reading about Data Governance and recognized its immense benefits. Impatient for progress, I began engaging with data custodians during my manager's absence. Upon his return, he appreciated my initiative and vision for Data Governance at the Trust. As a result, I was promoted to the leadership team, tasked with building a solid Data Governance foundation.

What characteristics make you successful at Data Governance and why?

I am highly motivated and an initiator. My enthusiasm is contagious, which helps in sharing that inner sparkle. My strengths lie in actively listening to stakeholders and articulating how a Data Governance framework can benefit them and their teams. I adapt my approach based on the audience, recognizing that Data Governance cannot succeed without stakeholder buy-in. Although it's a slow process, I'm dedicated to building solid foundations and gradually transforming the data culture, one person at a time.

What is the biggest challenge you have ever faced in a Data Governance implementation?

The biggest challenge was dealing with the legacy of two Data Governance Managers with very different approaches. The first had extensive knowledge of the Trust and its stakeholders, while the latter had deep expertise in Data Governance. However, the latest efforts resulted in textbook policies that failed to engage stakeholders. As the third person to take on this role, with Data Governance perceived as a failed initiative, I faced branding and credibility issues. Initially, I even avoided using the term 'Data Governance' to overcome these challenges.

Is there a company or industry you would particularly like to help implement Data Governance for and why?

I work for the King's Trust, but the charity sector as a whole lacks experience in implementing Data Governance. The Trust struggled to find a manager with both excellent knowledge of Data Governance and an understanding of the charity sector’s culture. My experience working with two managers with different skill sets has equipped me to successfully implement Data Governance, and I hope to extend this expertise across the charity sector.

What single piece of advice would you give someone just starting out in Data Governance?

The most important advice is to consider your stakeholders. They are not all data analysts, so speak their language and listen to them first. Then discuss how the Data Governance Framework will improve their efficiency and confidence, freeing up more time for direct engagement with beneficiaries. This approach fosters a culture where stakeholders care about their data and data quality.

Share a memorable data governance experience (either humorous or challenging).

Taking over Data Governance implementation at a challenging stage, I’ve strived to make it interesting, fun, and engaging. Recently, during a leadership course, I had to present on my progress. Knowing there were 18 presentations in total and that the audience might not be particularly interested in Data Governance, I crafted a fairy tale about it instead. This creative approach was well-received and made the experience memorable.

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Originally published on www.nicolaaskham.com