The profession of Data Manager is essential in today’s digital environment, where effective data management is crucial for business performance. Data Managers are responsible for the collection, organisation, storage, quality and security of data, ensuring that it is reliable and used in the optimal way.
What are Data Managers and why are they essential?
Data Managers, also known as Chief Data Officers (CDO), are the architects of a company’s information system. They are responsible for collecting, organising and securing data, guaranteeing its quality and compliance with current regulations, such as the GDPR. They play a vital role in terms of transforming data into usable information, to support strategic decision-making and innovation within the company.
Related professions: Data Scientist, Engineer, Architect, Analyst
The field of data management encompasses several interconnected professions:
Data Scientist: specialises in analysing and interpreting data, to extract valuable insights.
Data Engineer: responsible for the design and maintenance of data infrastructures.
Data Architect: designs the overall architecture of data systems to ensure they are efficient and scalable.
Data Analyst: among other things, analyses data to support operational decision-making.
The main missions and assignments of a Data Manager
The Data Manager plays a central role in corporate strategy, guaranteeing optimal data management. Their main tasks include:
Data management
Define the data to be collected, along with its origin and format, and organise its collection in such a way that it is compatible with the company’s systems.
Data quality and integrity control
Ensure that the data is reliable, complete and error-free, by eliminating inconsistencies and filling in gaps.
Information security
Guarantee data protection against cyber threats and ensure compliance with current regulations, such as the GDPR.
Data governance
Establish rules and best practices for data management, in collaboration with the company’s various teams.
What skills do you need to become a good Data Manager?
Technical Skills
A Data Manager must possess a solid set of technical skills:
- Programming languages: mastery of languages such as Python, R and SQL, to manipulate and analyse data.
- ETL tools (Extract, Transform, Load): the use of tools like Talend and Informatica for data integration and transformation.
- Database management: knowledge of database management systems such as Microsoft SQL Server, MySQL, Oracle Database and PostgreSQL.
- Data visualisation tools: skills when it comes to using tools like Power BI and Tableau, to present data in such a way that it can be understood.
Management skills
In addition to having technical skills, the Data Manager must also excel in the following areas:
- Planning: organises projects effectively, to meet organisational needs.
- Governance: implementing policies and procedures to ensure consistency and security in data management.
- Compliance: they guarantee compliance with data protection regulations such as the GDPR.
- Coordination: they work with different sales teams to align data management with business objectives.
Soft skills
Interpersonal skills are also essential for an effective Data Manager:
- Analytical mindset: Ability to interpret data and extract relevant information.
- Communication: Ability to explain technical concepts to those in functional roles and actively listen to stakeholders’ needs.
- Collaboration: Ability to work as part of a team and coordinate efforts with other departments and professions in the team.
- Adaptability: Ability to adapt to technological developments and changes in the work environment.
- Priority management: Efficient organisation of tasks depending on priorities in a multi-project environment.
- Rigorousness: Methodical management, to ensure data quality and conformity.
The Data Manager’s tools
Data management tools
To complete their tasks, Data Managers use a variety of tools for data management, including:
- Cloud storage: Services such as AWS S3, Google Cloud Storage and Azure for secure data storage.
- BI & Visualisation: Tools such as Power BI, Tableau and Qlik Sense for data visualisation and analysis.
- ETL & Integration: Data extraction, transformation and loading solutions such as Talend, Informatica, Apache NiFi and SSIS
- Databases: systems used to store and manage data, such as SQL, MongoDB, Oracle, MySQL and PostgreSQL.
Governance and security solutions
- Data governance and quality: Collibra, Informatica data quality, Talend data management
- GDPR compliance: OneTrust, TrustArc
- Metadata management: Alation, Apache Atlas, IBM InfoSphere
- Data security: Symantec Data Loss Prevention (DLP), McAfee Total Protection
How do I become a Data Manager?
Training
To become a Data Manager, you generally need to have a Master’s degree (bac+5). Relevant fields of study include:
- Data management, with in-depth training in data collection, processing and analysis techniques.
- Computer science, with knowledge of information systems, databases and programming languages.
- Data Science: skills in the fields of statistical modelling, machine learning and data visualisation.
Courses on these subjects can be taken at various universities and colleges, providing a solid foundation for a career in data management.
Useful certifications
In addition to academic training, there are certain certifications that can strengthen your professional profile and provide evidence of your specific skills:
- DAMA Certified Data Management Professional (CDMP): international recognition of your data management skills.
- AWS Certified Data Analytics – Specialty: certifies that you are adept with solutions focused primarily on data analysis on the Amazon Web Services platform.
These certifications demonstrate technical expertise and a commitment to professional excellence, making you more attractive to employers.
How much do Data Managers earn in Switzerland?
Salaries for Data Managers in Switzerland vary depending on experience, skills and which company is hiring.
Demand for qualified data management professionals in Switzerland is growing.
What are the career prospects for a Data Manager?
The career of a Data Manager offers many opportunities for advancement:
- Senior Data Manager: Supervision of complex projects and management of teams, with increased responsibility for the data management strategy.
- Chief Data Officer (CDO): Overall management of the company’s data strategy, in line with commercial and technological objectives.
These positions enable you to play a key role in digital transformation and innovation within organisations.
Sectors and companies recruiting Data Managers in Switzerland
The job of Data Manager is highly sought-after in various sectors of activity in Switzerland, including:
Pharmaceuticals: clinical and research data management.
Banking & insurance: financial data analysis and risk management.
Telecommunications: network optimisation and customer services. Development of innovative, data-driven solutions.
Why choose Qim info for your career in Data Management?
Qim info stands out as a major player in IT consulting, offering great opportunities for Data Management professionals. Reasons to consider Qim info for your career include:
- Recognised expertise: expertise at data management and digital transformation, with a reputation for excellence.
- Diverse projects and sectors : the fact we are involved in innovative projects in fields such as finance, healthcare, industry and luxury goods.
- Corporate culture: the company’s collaborative spirit, proximity management and work-life balance.
Joining Qim info will give you the opportunity to develop your skills in a dynamic environment and contribute to diverse, high value-added projects.
In conclusion, the career path of a Data Manager is one of great promise, with prospects for advancement, attractive salaries and opportunities in a variety of sectors. Investing in appropriate training and obtaining relevant certifications are key steps towards success in this fast-growing field.
