Data Governance Specialist

Summary

Join Wealthsimple's Security Assurance team as a Data Governance Specialist and play a critical role in shaping and operationalizing data governance practices. Lead the development and implementation of a comprehensive data governance framework, collaborate with cross-functional teams to manage sensitive data, and develop policies and procedures for data usage and privacy. You will drive data governance maturity through risk assessments and continuous improvement initiatives, and contribute to training programs. This role requires 4-6 years of experience in data governance and data privacy, with a working knowledge of Canadian privacy regulations. Proven ability to build and implement data governance strategies and strong stakeholder management skills are essential. Relevant certifications are preferred. Wealthsimple offers competitive salary, top-tier health benefits, retirement savings matching, generous paid time off, wellness and professional development budgets, and a 90-day away program.

Requirements

• 4-6 years of experience in data governance and data privacy, with exposure to compliance or information security (preferably in financial services or fintech)
• Working knowledge of Canadian privacy regulations (PIPEDA, Quebec Law 25) with demonstrated experience implementing privacy frameworks
• Proven ability to build and implement data governance strategies in complex, data-driven environments
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills with ability to translate technical concepts for diverse audiences
• Experience with data classification methodologies and data lifecycle management practices
• Self-directed professional who drives initiatives to completion and can influence without authority

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of a comprehensive data governance framework that scales with business growth
• Shape AI governance practices and data architecture decisions to embed privacy-by-design principles
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify, classify and map sensitive data across the organization, ensuring effective data lifecycle management
• Develop policies and procedures for data usage, privacy, security, and retention that balance compliance with business enablement
• Drive data governance maturity through proactive risk assessments, audits, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Contribute to training and awareness programs that build organization-wide data stewardship capabilities

Preferred Qualifications

Relevant certifications preferred (CIPP/C, CIPM, CDMP, CISSP, CISA, or equivalent)

Benefits

• Competitive salary with top-tier health benefits and life insurance
• Retirement savings matching plan using Wealthsimple for Business
• 20 vacation days per year and unlimited sick and mental health days
• Up to $1,500 per year towards wellness and professional development budgets respectively
• 90 days away program: Employees can work internationally in eligible countries for up to 90 days per calendar year