Head of Data Governance

Kepak is a leading food company with 14 manufacturing sites and over 4,500 employees across Ireland and the UK, with a turnover of €1.75 billion. The Group operates across three divisions: the Foods Division, Meat Division UK, and Meat Division Ireland. Guided by our values - Responsibility, Ambition, Passion for Food, and Teamwork - we are committed to operating as a successful, sustainable, future-ready business that is a great place to work. We supply fresh and value-added meat based products to retail and foodservice through private label and our own brands, including Rustlers, Big Al's and John Stone. Head of Data Governance In this newly created, pivotal role, the Head of Data Governance will shape and lead data governance frameworks for our Meat Divisions, ensuring data is managed as a strategic asset to unlock business value. Reporting to the Chief Supply Chain Officer, you’ll champion data integrity, compliance, and stewardship, collaborating across teams to embed robust standards and drive informed decision-making. You’ll be at the forefront of master data management, data quality, and cybersecurity, supporting audits and regulatory requirements while fostering a culture of data literacy and continuous improvement. If you’re passionate about driving business outcomes through innovative data practices and want to make a real impact in a dynamic, values-driven organisation, we like hear from you.

Responsibilities:

Data Governance and Standards Develop and implement data governance frameworks, policies and processes tailored to the needs of the Meat Divisions and in line with Kepak strategic goals and values. Oversee creation of business glossaries and data dictionaries Lead the creation and ongoing improvement of data stewardship, ownership and accountability within the meat divisions Master data & related metadata management Set up & chair a Data Governance Council, including BOM, Product (YPM), Customer, Supplier & Financial data stewards, overseeing the accuracy and integrity of Business Master data & related Metadata Lead cross-functional engagement related to data governance and data projects to ensure consistent data practices from livestock data through to end retail customer delivery data Establish data governance routines with key business functions ensuring clear communication and understanding of data governance policies and practice Data compliance Monitor compliance with data governance policies and escalate risks appropriately to the risk committee Support data-related audits and regulatory reporting requirement Update all data governance frameworks and processes to safeguard company data under guidance of Group Cybersecurity Manager Cross functional collaboration Ensure clear and professional communication across functions to align governance initiatives with business goals and drive positive outcomes External stakeholder management Lead positive engagement with all external stakeholders including customers, suppliers, regulators and relevant industry bodies Promote active and positive engagement with all internal and external stakeholders to enhance and grow Kepak’s reputation and employer brand credentials Data governance excellence Link governance initiatives to business outcomes (e.g., faster insights, reduced risk) & track and report ROI of governance programs In conjunction with the DTI team, evaluate and implement data governance tools and technology to improve data governance processes and enhance data management and security Data quality and integrity Implement data quality KPIs (e.g., completeness, accuracy, timeliness) Lead remediation efforts for data issues and ensure root cause resolution. Strategic Leadership & Accountability In conjunction with the CSCO & CIO, develop and implement a data governance strategy to improve business performance and align with business targets Set up effective management routines, internal communication forums and meetings and ensure management teams are regularly updated on data governance projects and performance. Business Continuity & Risk Management Identify and report on data governance risks across the supply chain In conjunction with the data stewards and IT teams, develop and implement data maintenance, management and recover plans across all sites Reporting to: Chief Supply Chain Officer Direct reports: None Travel: Regular travel within Ireland and the UK Proven experience in data governance, data management or related roles within FMCG, food manufacturing, or supply chain environments Food industry experience and knowledge will be a distinct advantage including primary and retail processing of meat Strong understanding of data compliance, privacy regulations, and industry standards Experience in data governance, BI or master data & related metadata management Familiarity with data management technologies (e.g., ERP, MES, data catalogues, MDM, DLP tools) Analytical mindset with a high level of attention to detail & strong problem-solving skills Appropriate qualification(s) or relevant experience in data governance, IT Knowledge of data regulations and cybersecurity an advantage What can we offer you? Hybrid Working Company Pension Bonus scheme Further Education support Employee Discount Platform - All Kepak employees are entitled to access to the WrkIt platform, which offers significant discounts and cashback with hundreds of brands. Cycle to Work Scheme - You can buy a bike and safety equipment through a salary sacrifice scheme which reduces your taxable income – meaning you pay less tax! Long Service Awards - We recognise, acknowledge and award the dedication and valuable contribution of long serving employee