The transition from data privacy roles to comprehensive data governance responsibilities reflects a seismic shift in how organizations perceive and manage data.
What began, for me, as a focus on compliance and risk mitigation at a leading financial services company has evolved into a strategic endeavor integrating data quality, ethical use and innovation within the public sector. This journey, informed by experiences across multiple industries, offers key lessons and insights for professionals navigating this dynamic field.
As someone who has been involved in data privacy since the early 2000s, I've witnessed its evolution firsthand. The role of privacy professionals has transitioned from being narrowly focused on reactive measures to satisfy regulations, to embracing a proactive, strategic approach to data management by embracing innovation.
This transformation was not without challenges or learning curves, but it has reinforced the importance of adaptability, continuous learning and collaboration.
From policy compliance to strategic data governance
Initially, data privacy roles were reactive, focused primarily on compliance with laws such as California's Online Privacy Protection Act and Security Breach Notification Act, both enacted in 2003. My responsibilities centered on protecting personal data, responding to breaches and ensuring compliance with evolving regulations.
Privacy pros at the time were often brought into projects late in the process — if at all — and were tasked with assessing risks and setting up controls as a final step. Sometimes, the role was a "check-the-box" exercise to be able to move to implementation.
However, as technology advanced and data became an increasingly valuable organizational asset, the limitations of this reactive approach became evident. Businesses began to recognize treating data privacy as a compliance checkbox stifled innovation and missed opportunities to leverage data strategically.
The focus shifted from simply protecting data to managing it responsibly throughout its life cycle. In short, trust has become the central theme to strong data privacy practices.
Today, privacy pros must continue shifting from a compliance-first mindset to one that embraces data as a strategic asset. This involves integrating privacy frameworks with broader organizational goals, including innovation, customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.
Lessons learned during the transition
Build strong stakeholder relationships across the organization and embed privacy considerations from the start. This is one of the most significant lessons I've learned. Early in my career, a mentor advised, "Don't let people meet you for the first time during a privacy incident."
This wisdom has shaped how I approach my work, emphasizing the need for proactive collaboration. At times, this means reaching out to the most challenging departments, listening to their needs and, over time, showing how the privacy pro can be an asset, not liability. Privacy pros must foster trust and be seen as partners in innovation, rather than obstacles to progress.
In one role, I worked closely with information technology and business leaders to embed privacy considerations into project planning. By involving the privacy team from the outset, we avoided costly delays and created solutions that balanced compliance with operational goals. This collaborative approach also strengthened the organization's culture, making privacy a shared responsibility. This interaction offered an opportunity to provide basic privacy education to a team focused on the end customer.
Privacy pros should be a visible and approachable partner to other departments, ensuring privacy is seen as a facilitator, not a blocker.
Adapt to technological evolution. The rapid pace of technological innovation has profoundly impacted the field of data governance. Generative artificial intelligence, augmented reality and quantum computing present new opportunities and challenges.
Privacy pros must not only understand these technologies but also anticipate their implications for data ethics, security and compliance. As this area is evolving, no one holds the one answer. Privacy pros are used to working on issues far ahead of regulation by placing trust at the center of the decision-making process.
My experience with technology highlighted the importance of proactive governance. In one instance, we implemented risk assessments to ensure the technology did not inadvertently perpetuate discrimination. This required close collaboration with data scientists and legal teams to align on ethical principles and technical safeguards.
It will be helpful for privacy pros to stay informed about technological trends and proactively integrate privacy and security measures into new systems. Developing a deep understanding of emerging technologies and their potential impacts on data governance, including data ethics, is important.
Prioritize data accuracy and classification. Effective data governance hinges on accurate data classification and management. This became evident during my tenure in the utilities sector, where operational data played a critical role in ensuring safety and efficiency. Mismanaging redundant, obsolete and trivial, or ROT, data led to inefficiencies, regulatory risks and operational challenges.
This was addressed by implementing a robust data classification program that streamlined workflows and improved decision-making. This experience underscored the importance of aligning data governance practices with organizational priorities, ensuring data serves as a reliable asset rather than a liability.
Implementing comprehensive data classification frameworks will ensure accuracy, reduce clutter and enhance decision-making. To continue aligning with business needs, regularly review and update data inventories, but never forget stakeholder engagement.
Advocate for privacy as a foundational element of organizational strategy. Early in my career, privacy roles were largely about incident response and risk mitigation. This reactive approach often resulted in missed opportunities to integrate privacy into strategic planning.
Over time, I have embraced a more proactive role, focusing on setting standards for data quality, ethical use and life cycle management.
This shift has transformed privacy from a cost center to a value driver. Demonstrating how privacy initiatives can enhance customer trust, drive innovation and support organizational goals has repositioned the privacy function as a strategic asset.
What professionals should know
To succeed in this evolving field, privacy pros must adopt a holistic perspective that integrates technical, legal and strategic considerations.
Collaboration is crucial. Privacy leaders must work closely with IT, legal, marketing and customer service teams to create a cohesive approach to data management. Breaking down silos and fostering cross-functional collaboration is essential for effective governance.
Privacy and innovation can coexist. Compliance need not stifle innovation. By aligning privacy initiatives with business goals, organizations can foster a culture of trust and creativity. For example, integrating privacy-by-design principles into product development ensures new technologies are both innovative and compliant.
Governance enables growth. Effective data governance frameworks not only ensure compliance but also unlock the strategic potential of data. By managing data responsibly and securely, organizations can drive innovation, improve decision-making and enhance customer satisfaction.
Expanding the role of mentorship
One of the most rewarding aspects of my journey has been the opportunity to mentor others. Early in my career, I benefited from the guidance of experienced colleagues who helped me navigate complex challenges and build my skills. This mentorship not only accelerated my professional growth but also instilled in me the importance of paying it forward.
In my current role, I prioritize mentoring emerging privacy pros, helping them develop the technical and strategic skills needed for success. This includes fostering a mindset of continuous learning and adaptability, which are critical for thriving in a rapidly changing field.
For those new to data governance, seek out mentors who can provide guidance and support. For experienced professionals, invest in mentoring the next generation to build a strong, collaborative community.
A forward-looking perspective
The journey from data privacy to data governance is one of adaptation, growth and opportunity. As organizations increasingly recognize the value of data, privacy pros have a unique opportunity to shape its future. By embracing a proactive, strategic approach, we can create frameworks that protect privacy, optimize data value and enable responsible growth.
Looking ahead, the integration of emerging technologies such as AI and machine learning will continue to redefine the field. Privacy pros must remain at the forefront of these developments, ensuring innovation aligns with ethical and regulatory standards. By doing so, we can help organizations harness the power of data while safeguarding the trust of their stakeholders.
The evolution of data governance is not just a professional journey — it's a call to action. For those of us in this field, the challenge is to balance the demands of compliance, innovation and ethics while championing the transformative potential of data. By sharing our experiences and lessons learned, we can build a future where data governance serves as both a safeguard and a catalyst for progress.
Chris Pahl, CIPP/C, CIPP/E, CIPP/G, CIPP/US, CIPM, CIPT, FIP, is the chief privacy officer for the County of Santa Clara.
