The Principal Data Quality Specialist serves as the enterprise-level lead for strategic data quality initiatives, combining deep technical expertise with leadership across complex, cross-functional programs. This individual is responsible for defining and standardizing data quality testing frameworks, guiding continuous improvement efforts, and ensuring alignment with enterprise data governance standards. As a key contributor to the Data Office, this role provides mentorship to senior QA professionals, partners with business and IS leaders, and ensures scalable, compliant data solutions.
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND AUTHORITY
Strategic Data Quality Leadership
Lead data validation strategy across the enterprise for initiatives with high strategic value, complexity, or regulatory importance.
Define and advocate standardized testing methodologies, documentation practices, and traceability frameworks across the Data Office.
Act as primary quality lead for cross-functional data programs, ensuring data quality goals are aligned with business objectives.
Technical Oversight and Mentorship
Provide thought leadership and expert consultation to Leads and Specialists across various data quality domains.
Review and guide complex validation plans, frameworks, and results from large-scale initiatives.
Support upskilling efforts and promote adoption of best practices and modern testing tools.
Continuous Improvement and Governance
Identify opportunities for automation, efficiency, and risk mitigation in enterprise data quality operations.
Ensure data validation efforts comply with organizational policies, regulatory expectations, and governance standards.
Collaborate with Data Governance, Engineering, and Business Units to integrate sustainable data quality practices.
Stakeholder Engagement
Represent the Data Quality Assurance function in executive forums and planning sessions.
Translate strategic objectives into measurable data quality initiatives and success metrics.
Communicate quality outcomes and improvement opportunities to senior leadership.
Other duties as assigned.
MINIMUM POSITION QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Data Management, or related field. Advanced degree preferred.
Extensive experience in data quality analysis, including leadership of high-complexity initiatives.
Proven experience guiding cross-functional data quality efforts at scale.
Expertise in SQL and enterprise data profiling, cleansing, and validation tools (e.g., Informatica DQ, Talend).
Strong understanding of data governance frameworks and metadata management tools.
Proficiency with BI platforms (e.g., Power BI, Tableau) and automated testing tools.
Strong influencing skills with experience mentoring and guiding technical teams.
Exceptional analytical and communication abilities to convey complex quality issues to varied audiences.
Ability to manage ambiguity and lead through change with a focus on sustainable results.
Knowledge of data management principles and data lifecycle management.
Certifications such as IQCP, CDMP, or equivalent in data management or quality preferred.
Experience working in regulated or high-reliability industries (e.g., insurance, finance, healthcare) preferred.
Experience with Guidewire P&C Insurance software suite preferred.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Use of PC, telephone, copy machine, fax, and other office equipment over six (6) hours per day.
Extended periods of sitting and concentration.
Occasional bending, twisting, crouching, pulling, pushing, lifting, and moving items weighing up to 30 lbs.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Occasional long, irregular hours.
Provide after-hours problem resolution when required.
Occasional travel by auto or other public transportation.
Work to be conducted in office environment owned or leased by company.
REVISED July 2025
