Data Governance and AI Project Manager

Kemin • Des Moines, IA

21h • Onsite

About The Position

Kemin Industries is seeking a Data Governance Project Manager to enhance an existing data governance framework, which has been under development for two years. This role is crucial for integrating AI, enterprise data, and governance into a cohesive and forward-moving portfolio. The successful candidate will lead the governance workstream of a high-priority AI initiative, collaborating closely with IT, business units, and an AI consultant to improve data quality, define data ownership, and translate complex requirements into practical processes. This position is central to Kemin’s data and AI evolution, ideal for someone who excels at bringing clarity, structure, and momentum to a rapidly expanding and promising area. The role is based on-site at Kemin's Worldwide Headquarters in Des Moines, Iowa. Kemin Industries is a privately held, family-owned global biotechnology company driven by curiosity and committed to transforming the quality of life for people, pets, and the planet. The company creates solutions that enhance health and wellbeing, provide nutrition and immune support for animals, safeguard natural resources, and protect the global food supply chain. Kemin supplies over 500 specialty ingredients to various industries and employs 3,500 global employees with operations in 90 countries.

Requirements

• Bachelors Degree in Data Management, Computer Science, Information Systems, Business Administration, or related field.
• 5+ years of relevant experience
• Strong leadership and stakeholder management abilities
• Understanding of how data governance supports business goals and strategy
• Skilled in developing training materials and conducting workshops

Nice To Haves

• CSM (Scrum Master)
• Certifications in data governance (e.g., DAMA CDMP), data quality (e.g., IQ-DQ), PMP or MLOps
• Knowledge of data governance tools including Informatica, PowerBI, etc
• Understanding of metadata management, data lineage, and data quality frameworks
• Familiarity with A/B testing frameworks and their integration into analytical models
• Experience facilitating model validation and UAT sessions with diverse stakeholders
• Skilled in change management frameworks (e.g., Prosci, ADKAR) to support culture shifts
• Practical knowledge of AI governance concepts, including model lifecycle management, data lineage, quality controls, bias, fairness, explainability, and model risk management
• Experience in establishing, tracking, and reporting on AI performance and ROI metrics for executive audiences

Responsibilities

• Execute organizational change management strategies to increase data literacy and adoption of data governance principles throughout a global workforce.
• Draft, implement, and maintain data policies, standards, and procedures; manage project documentation, version control, and governance templates.
• Develop and deliver comprehensive training programs on data governance policies, ensuring ongoing education and annual policy reviews.
• Identify and prioritize essential workflows, rigorously monitor project timelines, and drive continuous improvement in data quality.
• Track adherence to data governance policies, collaborate with data stewards to address non-compliance, and establish clear escalation mechanisms and engagement forums to maintain alignment and accountability.
• Coordinate the integration of data governance and AI initiatives across business units by managing cross-functional meetings, agendas, ethical AI practices, team onboarding, and regular project standups.
• Track data and AI project milestones, ROI, and success metrics; maintain risk registers, support A/B testing, and escalate blockers to leadership as needed.
• Enable effective two-way communication between technical and non-technical stakeholders by framing AI data risks, trade-offs, and decisions in accessible terms.
• Ensure the original intent of business, legal, and ethical decisions is preserved as they are operationalized in data and AI workflows, while aligning governance initiatives with evolving strategic priorities.
• Establish ongoing governance processes, including model review boards and knowledge transfer sessions between internal teams and external partners.

Benefits

• Competitive Financial Package: Enjoy a rewarding salary, uncapped bonus opportunities, a 401k match program, and generous paid vacation and holidays.
• Health and Wellness Support: Stay fit and healthy with our fitness reimbursement for the whole family, access to an on-site fitness center, a restaurant offering seasonal fresh food options, and free fresh fruit in break areas.
• Career Development and Advancement: Unlock your potential with opportunities for growth and development throughout your entire career.
• Continued Learning Opportunities: Grow your skills with our in-house learning platforms, offering thousands of training resources both live and online, and take advantage of tuition reimbursement for external post-secondary pursuits.
• Service Opportunities: Make a positive impact with paid time off for service, partnerships with The World Food Programme and Habitat for Humanity, and local community initiatives.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees