About the role:

The University of Lancashire is seeking a Data Governance Manager to lead the development and operation of our institutional data governance framework at a senior, strategic level.

This role is critical to supporting delivery of the University’s new Data Strategy and enabling the responsible and effective use of AI. You will ensure that data is trusted, well‑governed and fit for purpose to underpin analytics, automation and AI‑enabled services, while meeting regulatory, ethical and security requirements.

Working closely with senior stakeholders across academic schools and professional services, you will provide expert leadership on data governance, quality and ownership to support decision‑making, digital transformation and AI initiatives across the University.

We offer hybrid working with this role with the the option to work up to two days a week remotely dependent on the business need. 

About you:

You will be a data governance professional with the credibility and experience to operate at institutional level and to enable data‑led and AI‑enabled transformation.

You will bring strong knowledge of governance frameworks, standards and best practice and excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to translate complex data and AI‑related risks into clear, practical advice.

An undergraduate degree in information management, data science, IT, or other related field, or equivalent experiential learning is essential for this role. 

Use of AI in applications: We want to understand your genuine interest in the role and artificial intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application. However, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience and the written elements of your application should accurately reflect your own communication style. Applications that rely too heavily on AI tools can appear generic and lack the detail we need to assess your skills and experience.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

What we can offer you:

We have a fantastic package of rewards and lifestyle benefits – from an attractive annual leave entitlement to access to a comprehensive employee benefits platform which includes a 24/7 online GP.

Our people are our most important asset. We’ll encourage you to make the most of your talents and continually develop your skills and knowledge. As well as realising your career ambitions, you’ll be making a positive difference to other people’s lives. 

About us:

We are proud to be a diverse, multicultural university. We are committed to building a truly inclusive culture where diversity is championed. Applications are particularly welcomed from individuals who will support the diversification within the University and support its development of a culture that is inclusive and welcoming to all.

The University is committed to providing a safe environment to study, work and visit, protecting children, young people and adults at risk from harm and abuse. Our safeguarding policy and safer recruitment procedure outlines our approach, alongside other internal policies, procedures and guidance which can be found on our Safeguarding page.

Applicants applying for roles in regulated activity and that are listed as an exception under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 will be required to disclose any spent and unspent convictions and undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check at the appropriate level, the University will only ask an applicant to make an application for a DBS check if they are legally entitled to.

Closing Date: 10 May 2026

Division: Professional Services

Salary: £50,253 to £58,225 per annum