Data SME

Role DescriptionThe Data Subject Matter Expert (Data SME) will provide specialized knowledge and guidance across data management, data quality, data governance, analytics, and business data processes. The role focuses on helping teams understand complex data requirements, establish effective data practices, improve information quality, and ensure that data is used consistently and effectively across business functions.Key responsibilities include analyzing business data requirements, reviewing existing data structures, identifying information gaps, and providing recommendations for improving data collection, storage, processing, and usage. The role will work closely with business and technical stakeholders to translate business needs into clear and practical data requirements.The Data SME will support the development and maintenance of data definitions, business rules, data standards, metadata, data dictionaries, and other documentation. The role will help establish consistent interpretations of important business terms, data elements, calculations, and reporting metrics across different teams and systems.The position will investigate data quality issues, discrepancies, inconsistencies, and process gaps. Responsibilities may include performing data analysis, validating information, identifying root causes, recommending corrective actions, and supporting data remediation initiatives.Additional responsibilities include contributing to data governance programs, data migration projects, reporting initiatives, system implementations, data integration activities, and process improvement projects. The role may also review data models, reporting requirements, system specifications, and proposed changes to ensure alignment with business and data standards.The Data SME will communicate complex data concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders and may provide guidance to analysts, developers, data engineers, project teams, and business users. The role will help ensure that data-related decisions are supported by accurate information and clearly defined business requirements.The successful candidate should demonstrate strong analytical thinking, business understanding, attention to detail, and the ability to work across different functions. Strong communication and problem-solving skills are essential for resolving data-related challenges and establishing practical solutions.QualificationsBachelor’s degree, diploma, or equivalent qualification in Data Management, Computer Science, Information Technology, Business Analytics, Statistics, Mathematics, Information Systems, or a related field.Strong understanding of data management, data governance, data quality, data analysis, and information-management principles.Ability to analyze complex datasets and identify trends, discrepancies, relationships, and potential data-quality issues.Strong understanding of data definitions, business rules, metadata, data dictionaries, and data standards.Familiarity with data governance frameworks, data ownership, stewardship, lineage, and data lifecycle concepts.Strong SQL knowledge and understanding of relational databases and data structures.Familiarity with data visualization and business intelligence platforms such as Power BI, Tableau, Looker, or equivalent tools.Understanding of data integration, ETL/ELT processes, APIs, data warehouses, and data migration concepts.Ability to translate business requirements into clear data specifications and practical technical requirements.Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to investigate root causes of data issues and recommend appropriate solutions.Strong attention to detail when reviewing data models, reports, business rules, datasets, and technical documentation.Ability to develop and maintain data-related documentation, standards, procedures, and governance materials.Understanding of data privacy, security, confidentiality, access control, and responsible data-handling practices.Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to explain complex data concepts clearly.Ability to collaborate effectively with data analysts, engineers, developers, architects, project managers, and business stakeholders.Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple data initiatives, requirements, and priorities.Familiarity with Python, R, cloud data platforms, or data-management tools is advantageous.Ability to evaluate the business impact of data issues and prioritize improvements based on organizational needs.Proactive and structured approach with a strong focus on data accuracy, consistency, usability, governance, and continuous improvement.