Data Governance Analyst

• Play a foundational role in building governance maturity
• Work hands-on with enterprise governance tooling
• Influence data quality standards across the organisation
• Hybrid role requiring a minimum of 3 days per week onsite

Are you ready to build data governance capability from the ground up?

This is a rare opportunity to join a small but high-impact team at a pivotal stage in its evolution within the Digital Technology Services (DTS) division at the University. With foundational frameworks in place, we are now seeking a technically capable and stakeholder-savvy professional to help embed, uplift and increase the data governance maturity at the University.

If you enjoy working at the intersection of data, systems, and organisational change — and want to see tangible improvement in enterprise data quality — this role offers meaningful scope and influence.

The role

As the Data Governance Analyst, you will support the design, implementation and ongoing management of governance components across cross-disciplinary projects. You will play a hands-on role in embedding the University’s Data Governance Framework, improving data quality standards, and implementing Microsoft Purview as the core governance tool.

You will work directly with tooling, classification, data quality controls and governance artefacts, while partnering with stakeholders across technical and business areas.

Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting implementation and continual refinement of the University’s Data Governance Policy and Framework
• Implementing and operationalising Microsoft Purview to strengthen data classification, lineage and compliance monitoring
• Standardising data quality practices and improving consistency, completeness and accuracy of institutional data
• Identifying and mitigating governance and data integrity risks across projects
• Embedding governance practices throughout the project lifecycle
• Classifying new data assets and maintaining existing classifications
• Monitoring governance effectiveness and driving continuous improvement

You will work closely with technical data owners, subject matter experts, compliance stakeholders and senior leaders to ensure governance practices are pragmatic, scalable and sustainable.

About You

You are a data-driven professional who combines technical governance capability with strong stakeholder engagement skills. You are comfortable working hands-on with governance tools while also influencing project teams and business leaders.

You will bring:

• Demonstrated experience implementing or supporting data governance frameworks
• Practical experience with governance tooling, ideally Microsoft Purview or similar platforms
• Strong stakeholder engagement capability, with the ability to partner effectively across technical and business domains
• Experience managing data governance throughout the project lifecycle
• Ability to identify, triage and mitigate data quality and integrity risks
• A structured and analytical approach, with strong documentation skills

This fixed term position is full time at a HEW 7 Higher Education Level for 12 months and is based at Callaghan

About our University

The University of Newcastle stands as a global leader distinguished by a commitment to equity and excellence. Our vision is to be a world-leading University for our regions and creating a better future for our regions and the globe. Underpinned by this vision and our values of excellence, equity, engagement and sustainability, the University of Newcastle’s Looking Ahead Strategic Plan 2020-2025[LC1] outlines the University’s commitment to delivering an exceptional student experience and serving our communities. 

For more information click here – Our Uni. 

What we offer

In addition to working for a university that is breaking boundaries, discovering new ways of thinking and cementing a place as a global leader, we offer a range of benefits to our employees to ensure you balance your commitments, stay healthy and work effectively. 

These include: 

• Attractive remuneration package + superannuation and excellent employment conditions in line with University of Newcastle professional staff conditions.
• Flexible working arrangements (in line with the University’s Flexible Work Policy
• 35 hour week
• 17% super and salary packaging
• Additional University Holiday days, generous personal leave and parental leave, annual leave loading and additional purchased leave scheme
• Discounts in private health insurance, gym memberships, software, travel and more
• Wellbeing programs

If you are motivated by building capability, strengthening governance controls, and shaping enterprise data maturity, we encourage you to apply.

Your next steps 

Please visit here for a guide on how to apply for a role. 

If viewing this on a job board other than the University's please click ‘Apply’ to reach the University's website, where a copy of the Position Description can be accessed. Please download a copy before commencing your application. 

Your application must include: 

• Your resume
• A cover letter outlining your motivation to apply for this opportunity
• A statement addressing the Essential Criteria listed in the job description demonstrating your qualifications and experience with examples.

To ensure that your application receives full consideration, it's important to structure and address the selection criteria outlined in the application process. This helps us better understand your experience and suitability for the role. We appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to reviewing your application.

Please upload your Cover Letter and response to the requested Criteria as one PDF document.

Your Cover Letter and Response to the Essential Criteria should not exceed 4 pages (approximately 2,000 words).

Applications for this position will only be accepted from those with Australian residency or a valid work permit. We are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role. 

For specific position enquiries, please contact name, via email Laura.Chapman@newcastle.edu.au

 Having Difficulties? Please reach out to us: employment@newcastle.edu.au

Closing date: Wednesday 4^th March 11:59pm AEST

Our assessment process

Typically, candidates that progress beyond the shortlist stage can expect to undertake the following (minimum) assessment activities as part of the recruitment process:

• Interview (an ‘in person’ interview will be conducted as part of the process)
• Referee checks
• Pre-employment checks as appropriate to the role

Our University is committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for every member of our community. This commitment is central to our values and our efforts to build a diverse workforce where everyone can thrive.

 As part of this, and in alignment with the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence 2025, from 1 January 2026, the University will also consider gender-based violence risk factors as part of our recruitment processes.

The completion and return of the University’s Gender-based Violence Declaration Form will form part of the pre-employment checks for this position and any offer of employment will be conditional upon review by the University.

Our adherence to the Code is about more than compliance—it’s about living our values. Together, we can ensure our University remains a place where respect, safety, and inclusion are non-negotiable.

We are excited to be Looking Ahead with you

#LI-KG1