Information Management Manager (Manager, Data Policy and Standards)

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT OF CYBER SECURITY AND DIGITAL SOLUTIONS (CSDS)

At CSDS, we prioritize people—both within our team and in the communities we serve. Our mission is to redefine how Nova Scotians engage with government by creating accessible, reliable digital solutions centered around user needs.

In today’s tech-driven world, CSDS empowers government departments with essential digital solutions to meet Nova Scotians’ expectations. As a trusted partner across government, we enable departments to fulfill their mandates with secure, user-friendly services. From healthcare and education to public safety, we collaborate to transform how services are designed and delivered.

We don’t just implement technology; we modernize outdated systems and reimagine processes. Our agile, data-driven approach ensures that digital services are both efficient and adaptable to Nova Scotia’s evolving needs.

Joining CSDS means contributing to work that makes a real difference. From providing vital tech support to healthcare professionals to strengthening cybersecurity and developing scalable digital platforms, you’ll play a key role in building a more inclusive, responsive government for Nova Scotians.

Together, we’re setting new standards for digital public service, delivering resilient solutions that meet today’s needs—and anticipate tomorrow’s challenges.

About Our Opportunity

The Data Policy & Standards Manager will develop and implement a comprehensive framework to ensure digital systems produce trusted data for the public good. This framework will encompass data management, access, sharing, and quality, potentially involving legislation, policies, standards, and guidelines to enhance data usability throughout its lifecycle. By integrating privacy and security considerations from the outset, the Manager will promote responsible data practices that build public trust and maximize the value of data. This role is pivotal in advancing digital transformation, modernizing government services, and ensuring they are responsive to the needs of Nova Scotians. 

The Manager will collaborate within CSDS and across government to identify evidence-based opportunities to strategically implement policies and standards to improve data usability, availability, and access.  This includes providing oversight of the Open Data portal and encouraging greater government transparency and fostering public trust by ensuring government data is accessible and responsibly shared to support innovation, economic growth, and public accountability.   

Who We're Looking For

In this role, you will lead a team of professional staff that provide data policy and standards services, helping to create a framework to help our partners throughout the Nova Scotia government to confidently govern and manage data.  In addition, you will lead the governance and operation of Nova Scotia’s Open Data program and platform.  You have a passion for policy and an attention to detail.   

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a policy and standards framework to ensure departments have access to trusted data throughout its lifecycle, enabling responsible data management for the public good.

• Lead a diverse team in identifying opportunities to improve usability and trustworthiness of data through policies and standards.

• Provide coaching and guidance to enable partners across government to be confident data stewards, ensuring compliance with established policies and standards, and integrating privacy and security into design and delivery of digital services.

• Provide coaching and guidance to partners to incorporate data governance activities into routine business operations.

• Collaborate closely with technical teams to develop and implement technical data standards that ensure security and interoperability, supporting the design of adaptable and connected systems.

• Advocate for improved data management practices and provide guidance to enhance data literacy among staff, fostering a culture that values data as a strategic asset.

Qualifications and Experience

To be considered for this opportunity, you hold a bachelor's degree plus several years of progressive experience in a related data governance or policy field (or an acceptable equivalent). 

This position requires competencies in the management of people which must be demonstrated through formal experience in the management of staff or progressive experience leading projects or program teams. 

As the ideal candidate, you have a high level of creativity, consensus building, and negotiating skills to reach collaborative solutions among a wide range of stakeholders.  You are innovative in your ability to assess requirements, make recommendations for improvements, and implement changes. 

To be the successful candidate, you possess the following skills and experience:

• Demonstrated experience in developing and managing policies or standards that promote responsible data management and align with organizational values and ethics.

• Experience leading cross-functional teams or working in collaborative environments.

• Proven ability to manage data throughout its lifecycle, ensuring compliance with legislation and policies to keep data safe and accessible, and maximizing its value to the public.

• Effective communication skills, with the ability to adapt information and ideas to diverse audiences, fostering a culture of inclusivity and accessibility.

LEADS

The Government of Nova Scotia has adopted the LEADS Leadership Framework.  During the interview, candidates will be expected to express how they have demonstrated the key behaviours and capabilities required to effectively lead in a caring and inclusive environment. LEADS Domains includes Leads Self, Engage Others, Achieve Results, Develop Coalitions and Systems Transformation.  Please see LEADS (novascotia.ca) for more information. 

Leadership competencies required at this level of work are:  Analytical Thinking, Action Management, Client Orientation, Developing Others, Team Leadership, Initiative, Effective Interactive Communication, Partnering & Relationship Building, Strategic Orientation, Intercultural Diversity Proficiency. 

Benefits & Perks

At the CSDS with the Government of Nova Scotia, we are committed to providing a fulfilling work environment with numerous benefits and opportunities:

• Work-Life Balance: Maintain a healthy work-life balance with a 35-hour work week. 

• Secure Your Future: Access a defined benefits pension plan for a stable retirement. 

• Annual Leave & Holidays: Start with 3 weeks (15 days) of annual vacation. 

• Supportive Leadership: Our leadership prioritizes flexibility, communication, and enabling your success.

• Support in Times of Need: Rely on short- and long-term support options tailored to help you and your family when it matters most.

• Employee and Family Support: Access our Employee and Family Assistance Programs for comprehensive resources and guidance.

• Cross-Sector Collaboration: Engage with various stakeholders and government departments, building expertise and connections that enrich Nova Scotia’s future, and your own professional development. 

• Growth & Development: Explore career paths in specialized areas like digital service design, cybersecurity, enterprise risk, digital platforms, mission IT, and more.

• Lifelong Learning: Expand your skills with ongoing training and development opportunities.

• Professional Advancement: Dive into public service with endless opportunities for growth, learning, and meaningful contributions.

Join the Department of Cyber Security & Digital Solutions and experience the benefits of a fulfilling career, supported by comprehensive perks, career development opportunities, and a diverse range of paths to explore within our department and across the government.