Chief Data Governance Officer Job Vacancy in Karonga, Malawi – Manufacturing & Chemicals

Job Description

Position:Chief Data Governance Officer

Company:BASF Malawi

Location:Karonga, Malawi

Experience:10+ years of data governance and management experience

Education:Master’s degree in Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field

Employment Type:Full-time

Industry:Manufacturing & Chemicals

Department:Data Management

Salary:SSP 3,500,000 – SSP 5,000,000 per annum

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

BASF Malawi is a leading global chemical company with a strong commitment to sustainable development and innovative solutions for agriculture, construction, and industrial applications. Operating in Malawi for over two decades, BASF has established state‑of‑the‑art production facilities, research labs, and a robust supply chain that supports local farmers, manufacturers, and infrastructure projects. The company’s mission is to create chemistry for a better life, and it actively invests in community programs, environmental stewardship, and talent development across the region. As part of its strategic growth plan, BASF Malawi is expanding its data capabilities to drive smarter decision‑making, enhance regulatory compliance, and unlock new market opportunities. This expansion creates a unique career path for professionals seeking to shape data governance frameworks in a dynamic, multinational environment.

For more about BASF Malawi and its impact on the local economy, visit our website.

Job Overview

The Chief Data Governance Officer (CDGO) will lead the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of BASF Malawi’s data governance program. Reporting directly to the Regional Head of Data Management, the CDGO will define data policies, standards, and procedures that ensure data quality, security, and regulatory compliance across all business units. This senior role requires a strategic mindset, deep technical expertise, and the ability to influence cross‑functional teams, including IT, finance, supply chain, and R&D. The CDGO will also serve as a key advisor to senior leadership on data‑driven strategies that support BASF’s sustainability goals and market expansion in Southern Africa.

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Key Responsibilities

• Develop and enforce a comprehensive data governance framework aligned with international standards such as DAMA‑DMBoK and ISO 38500.
• Establish data ownership, stewardship, and accountability structures across all functional areas.
• Lead data quality initiatives, including data profiling, cleansing, and validation processes.
• Ensure compliance with local data protection regulations, GDPR where applicable, and industry‑specific standards.
• Collaborate with IT to implement data lineage, metadata management, and master data management (MDM) solutions.
• Provide regular reporting to executive leadership on data risk, compliance status, and governance metrics.
• Drive a culture of data literacy through workshops, training sessions, and communication campaigns.
• Oversee data security policies, access controls, and incident response procedures.
• Partner with external auditors and regulatory bodies during inspections and audits.
• Continuously evaluate emerging data governance technologies and recommend strategic investments.

Required Skills

• Extensive experience (10+ years) in data governance, data quality, and data management within large, regulated organizations.
• Strong knowledge of data governance frameworks, MDM, data cataloging, and data privacy laws.
• Proficiency with governance tools such as Collibra, Informatica, or Alation.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder‑management abilities.
• Analytical mindset with the capacity to translate complex data concepts into actionable business insights.
• Project management certification (PMP, PRINCE2) is an advantage.
• Fluency in English; knowledge of Chichewa is beneficial.

Education

A Master’s degree in Information Systems, Computer Science, Data Science, Business Administration, or a related discipline is required. Professional certifications in data governance, data privacy (CIPP/ISO 27001), or data management are highly regarded.

Experience

The ideal candidate will have a minimum of ten years of progressive experience in data governance, data quality, or data architecture roles, preferably within the manufacturing or chemicals sector. Experience leading cross‑functional teams and managing enterprise‑wide data initiatives is essential.

Salary

The compensation package ranges from SSP 3,500,000 to SSP 5,000,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications. The package includes performance‑based bonuses, health insurance, pension contributions, and relocation assistance if applicable.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with annual performance bonus.
• Comprehensive health and dental coverage.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching.
• Professional development allowance and certification support.
• Flexible working hours and remote‑work options.
• Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.

Training

• Onboarding program covering BASF’s corporate values, data policies, and compliance requirements.
• Access to global BASF learning platforms for continuous skill enhancement.
• Mentorship from senior data leaders across the BASF network.
• Regular workshops on emerging data technologies, AI ethics, and sustainability analytics.

Working Environment

BASF Malawi offers a collaborative, inclusive, and safety‑first workplace. Employees work in modern offices equipped with the latest technology, and have access to on‑site amenities such as a cafeteria, fitness center, and secure parking. The company promotes a balanced work‑life culture and encourages community involvement through volunteer programs.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining their data governance achievements via the BASF careers portal. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for a virtual interview followed by an on‑site assessment at the Karonga facility.

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Equal Opportunity Statement

BASF Malawi is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, race, religion, age, disability, or sexual orientation. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any protected characteristic.