EMEA Head of Data Governance

Company: SMBC Bank International plc
Apply for the EMEA Head of Data Governance
Location: Greater London
Job Description:

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Here at SMBC Group, we want to help you find the next step in your career so read on to discover if this opportunity is the one for you. We like to recognise potential in our people, so we welcome your application even when your experience doesn’t perfectly align with the job description. Whilst we’ll always strive to be better, we’re proud of our inclusive culture, and encourage our applicants and colleagues to be their authentic, unique selves.

Role Summary

The EMEA Head of Data Governance is a pivotal role within SMBC’s Data Management function, both regionally and globally. This highly experienced individual will leverage deep expertise to lead the implementation of data governance initiatives across SMBC EMEA, ensuring full alignment with SMBC’s global data governance strategy.

The role requires close collaboration with Tokyo Headquarters, the AD Division, APAC, and EA to ensure global consistency in SMBC Group’s strategic programs, such as the Data Governance Maturity Enhancement Plan. It will also provide support for regulatory and compliance projects, including BCBS and ECB onboarding. Additionally, the position involves working closely with key local stakeholders in EMEA, such as the IT Department, RMD, STPD, Data Platform team, and Analytics Governance team, as well as supporting the buildout of the Global Capability Center (GCC), SMBC’s offshore hub.

This role reports directly to the EMEA Regional Chief Data and Analytics Officer.

The EMEA Head of Data Governance plays a critical role in advancing SMBC’s data management capabilities across the EMEA region and supporting global initiatives. This position is responsible for implementing strategic data governance programs, ensuring regulatory compliance, and fostering alignment with SMBC Group’s global standards on data governance.

To strengthen SMBC Group’s data governance framework, the following global programs are underway:

  • Data Maturity Enhancement 3-Year Plan: Elevating governance maturity level for Key Data Usage articulated in FY24.
  • BCBS239 Compliance Project: Ensuring consistent regulatory compliance across SMBC globally. Data governance is one of the most important workstreams in the BCBS239 compliance project.
  • ECB Onboarding (FY27): Preparing SMBC’s EU entity for ECB requirements, including implementing robust data governance for all regulatory reports mandated by the ECB.

These initiatives overlap but have distinct requirements, placing SMBC EMEA Data Management Office (DMO) in a critical implementation phase. Given their global nature, close coordination with Tokyo Headquarters and overseas entities is essential to maintain consistency and alignment.

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Posted: January 11th, 2026