Join our Downer Professional Services team and play a key role in delivering complex defence and national security projects that safeguard Australia’s future.

Downer Skilled Services comprises of three business units our Technical, Advisory, and Capability consulting practice, and Team Downer , which partners with CASG and NSSG as a major service provider to Defence . Together, we are a multi-disciplinary advisory and delivery partner of choice for clients across Defence and National Security.

Data is one of Defence’s most valuable strategic assets. How it is governed, protected and utilised has a direct impact on decision-making, capability delivery and operational success.

We’re seeking an experienced Data Governance Manager to help establish and mature data governance practices supporting a critical Defence capability program. This is an opportunity to influence how data is managed, protected and leveraged across a complex Defence setting while contributing to outcomes that support Australia’s sovereign capability and national security objectives.

Working closely with senior stakeholders, data professionals and Defence partners, you’ll play a key role in shaping data governance frameworks, improving data management practices and ensuring the ethical, secure and compliant use of information.

If you’re passionate about governance, data strategy and enabling better business outcomes through effective information management, this is an opportunity to make a lasting impact.

What You’ll Do

As the Data Governance Manager , you will establish, implement and oversee the data governance framework across a complex Defence environment. You’ll provide leadership and guidance on governance policies, standards, controls and accountabilities that ensure data is managed consistently, ethically and in accordance with Defence regulatory requirements. Working across business and technical teams, you’ll help align data governance practices with enterprise architecture, business strategy and organisational objectives.

This role offers the opportunity to influence strategic decision-making,



support emerging AI and data initiatives and help build a mature data-driven culture across the organisation.

This role offers a broad scope, with key role responsibilities including:

- Define, implement and continuously improve data governance frameworks aligned to Defence policies, standards and strategic objectives.

- Establish governance policies, standards, decision rights and controls that support secure and compliant data management practices.

- Ensure governance frameworks align with organisational values, risk appetite and regulatory obligations.

- Provide oversight and assurance relating to data ethics, AI governance and emerging data initiatives.

- Support the development and implementation of data management and information governance strategies.

- Promote best-practice approaches to data quality, lifecycle management, metadata management and master data governance.

What You’ll Bring

- Demonstrated experience establishing or managing data governance frameworks within complex organisations.

- Strong understanding of data governance, information management and data lifecycle practices.

- Experience developing governance policies, standards, controls and accountability frameworks.

- Strong stakeholder engagement and influencing skills across business and technical audiences.

- Experience managing compliance, risk and regulatory obligations relating to data.

Due to the nature of the work, you are required to currently hold and maintain an AGSVA Security clearance as required by the Commonwealth. In some instances, compliance with International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) requirements may also be an inherent requirement.

More than anything, you’ll bring a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and a commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes for our clients.

Why Downer Professional Services

At Downer Professional Services,



we’re not just a workplace - we’re a business dedicated to contributing to the shaping of the future of defence in Australia. As the country’s only sovereign prime, we’re committed to making a real difference in protecting Australia’s interests.

What is means to belong at Downer Professional Services

- Meaningful work: Help to deliver critical Defence projects that protect Australia and shape its future.

- Professional development: Access career mapping, accelerated learning programs, and shared learning through our Communities of Practice.

- Outstanding perks: Enjoy discounts on healthcare, retail, vehicles, and more through Perks@Downer .

- Veteran support : Benefit from initiatives like up to 20 days of Reservist Leave to stay connected post-service.

You want your work to matter and so do we. With over 26,000 people across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific, our team is made up of individuals with unique perspectives, backgrounds, and ideas.

We know that diversity makes us stronger and we actively celebrate it through our commitment to inclusion and belonging.

We’re committed to building a team that reflects the diverse communities we serve and we welcome people of all ages, genders, sexual orientations, cultures, abilities, and lived experiences. We especially encourage applications from those whose voices have traditionally been underrepresented in our industry, including women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, Māori and Pasifika Peoples, veterans, people with disability, and neurodivergent individuals. Even if your experience doesn’t align perfectly with this role, we’d still like to hear from you. If it feels like the right fit, apply - potential counts, and so do you.

As a WORK180 Endorsed Employer, we support flexibility that works for your life, inclusive leadership that values your voice, and equitable access to opportunity so you can do your best work and bring your whole self to it.

If you need support or adjustments through the recruitment process, just let us know, we’re here to help you put your best foot forward

📌 Data Governance Manager (Canberra)
🏢 Downer Group
📍 Canberra