What is the role of a Data Steward?

The role of a Data Steward is fundamentally centered on ensuring data accuracy and compliance. This position is essential within an organization as it involves overseeing the management and protection of data assets. A Data Steward is responsible for implementing data quality standards, establishing data governance policies, and ensuring that data is kept accurate, complete, and consistent across the organization. This role is vital, especially in regulated industries where compliance with laws and regulations around data usage and privacy is critical.

The responsibilities of a Data Steward often include monitoring data processes, providing training and support for data management practices, and collaborating with other stakeholders to uphold data integrity. By focusing on compliance as well, Data Stewards help organizations mitigate risks associated with data breaches, inaccuracies, and other issues that can arise from poor data management practices.

While analyzing data trends, developing data models, and designing data architectures are important activities within data management, they fall under different roles such as data analysts, data architects, or data modelers. These positions have distinct focuses and responsibilities that do not encompass the broader accountability for data governance and stewardship that defines the role of a Data Steward.