Program Manager - Data and GIS Governance

About the role

Yakshna Solutions, Inc. (YSI) is a CMMI Level 3 assessed, ISO 9001, 20000:1, 27001 certified, woman-owned small business headquartered in Herndon, Virginia. YSI provides professional IT solutions and services to business corporations and government organizations.

This position drives the strategy, coordination, and execution of data governance, GIS governance, and master data management activities across a large, complex organization. The Associate Program Manager ensures VDOT’s data assets are high-quality, well managed, properly stewarded, and leveraged effectively to support enterprise decision-making, operational efficiency, and long-term digital transformation goals.

Responsibilities

• Participate in VDOT’s enterprise data governance framework, ensuring consistency, accountability, and effective data stewardship.
• Oversee master data management efforts supporting mission‑critical datasets.
• Champion data lifecycle best practices — from creation and storage to archival — ensuring alignment with regulatory, operational, and security requirements.
• Manage and mature metadata standards, data dictionaries, classification systems, and documentation practices.
• Drive remediation strategies for data quality issues by collaborating closely with business units, technical teams, and subject matter experts.
• Provide strategic direction for geospatial governance, ArcGIS platform utilization, and integration of GIS capabilities into enterprise processes.
• Support adoption of emerging data tools, technologies, and platforms, ensuring VDOT remains modern, efficient, and data‑driven.
• Communicate complex data topics clearly to technical and non‑technical audiences; develop training, guidance materials, and governance communications.
• Facilitate cross‑functional working groups, ensuring alignment on data priorities and policies.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience leading enterprise data programs within a large organization.
• Deep understanding of data governance principles, frameworks, and industry best practices.
• Proven capability in managing the full data lifecycle within complex organizational structures.
• Expertise in metadata management, data quality enhancement, and building sustainable data documentation processes.
• Strong problem‑solving skills with a track record of designing scalable processes and governance mechanisms.
• Ability to translate abstract or technically complex concepts into approachable, actionable insights.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for executive‑level and cross‑functional engagement.

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance
• Paid time off
• Training and professional development assistance

Location: 1401 E Broad St, Richmond, VA 23219

Salary: $125,000–$130,000 annually

Citizenship: US Citizen or Green card holder only