Data Strategist

The Data Strategist will be critical in shaping Macalester’s data-informed future.  The role will oversee the development and implementation of data governance policies, standards, and processes.  This role will lead the data governance group, partnering with stakeholders across campus to ensure data quality, integrity and security, optimizing data utilization across the organization.  The successful candidate will develop Macalester’s data dictionary in preparation for the institution’s ERP implementation and will lead efforts to collect data in Macalester’s Data Lakehouse.  As the ERP is implemented, the person in this position will partner with business units to implement dashboards to enable data-driven decisions.  In partnership with IT and Institutional Research, the person in this role will develop and execute a comprehensive data strategy.   

This is a full-time role with a hybrid weekly schedule (2-3 days in office required) following the initial training period. 

About The Department:
Macalester College's Information Technology Services (ITS) department offers comprehensive services to support the campus community's technological needs. These services include project management, systems consulting, software implementation and maintenance, database management, and data reporting. Additionally, ITS manages the campus network, telecommunications systems, central servers, and information security architecture.

• Data Strategy Development:  In partnership with IR, leadership, and stakeholders across campus, define and implement a comprehensive data strategy.  Assess current data management practices and develop strategies for optimizing data utilization.  

• Data Governance Strategy:  Develop and implement a robust data governance strategy that supports the transition to a new ERP.  Lead the Data Governance group.  

• Data Integrity:  Ensure the central data repository maintains data integrity for accurate reporting and analysis. 

• Data Standards:  Develop and implement best practices and standards in data processing, design definitions, architecture, and operations.   

• Data Analytics and Reporting:  Lead efforts in designing dashboards, reports, and visualizations to enable data-informed decision-making in the institution's Data Lakehouse and ERP.  

• Other Responsibilities: Completes other responsibilities as assigned. Participates as an active member of the team. Participates in department and college activities and supports the implementation of shared goals and initiatives. Provides backup support to other team members.

Required 3 to 5 Years of experience with the following:

• Data policy and data governance leadership. 
• Creation of data dictionary/catalog.
• Experience with data connections and visualizations. 
• Writing reports/dashboarding.

Compensation:

The annual salary for this position is $94,072 - $98,348, depending on experience. 

Benefits: 

At Macalester, we are proud to offer excellent comprehensive employee benefits. Here are some highlights:

• 10% employer contributions to the retirement plan. 
• Outstanding vacation and sick time packages, plus an additional 10 holidays.
• Generous employer contribution to Health Savings Account.
• Tuition assistance which pays between 75% - 100% of eligible tuition for employee dependents at select institutions.
• Free primary care for most services through Nice Healthcare when enrolled in a Macalester health plan.
• Access to the athletics fitness facility, wellness coaching, and activities.

These are just some of the great benefits Macalester has to offer! To see our full benefits packages and options, please visit our Benefits Page.

 Satisfactory completion of a criminal background check is a condition of employment.

Application Guidelines:

For best consideration, please submit your cover letter and resume through the Macalester Employment Opportunities webpage by June 1st, 2025. No applications submitted without cover letters will be considered. This position will be posted until filled. 

Jaclyn Howard

Talent Acquisition Manager

jhoward3@Macalester.edu

Founded in 1874, Macalester College provides students with the inspiration, insight, and experience to become successful and ethical leaders. Located in flourishing St. Paul, Minnesota, Macalester enrolls over 2,000 students from across the country and around the world. Macalester is a preeminent liberal arts college recognized for its student service and celebration of internationalism.

At Macalester, we look at our employees through a whole-person, holistic lens. With comprehensive benefits and well-being programs, we provide and enable our community members to grow and care for themselves, their families, and one another. Our whole-hearted fidelity to community-building and social justice exemplify these ideals. Macalester College continuously prioritizes a culturally diverse and pluralistic community. We value individuals of all backgrounds and lived experiences. 

Our rich blend of people holding varied identities enhances our strong commitment to multiculturalism and global citizenship. We seek candidates who reflect and strengthen our campus environment. Macalester invites and encourages everyone to apply who would add depth to our community including those from all sexual orientations, races, ethnicities, national origins, genders, religions, abilities, and ages.