Establishing a Data Governance Council (DGC) in a federal government organization presents unique challenges and opportunities. This session, with Adrianna Steele of FEMA and Bob Seiner of KIK Consulting, will explore the journey of (re)setting a Data Governance Council within FEMA, focusing on the essential steps, key considerations, and common obstacles encountered along the way.

Attendees will gain insights into the critical role of executive support, the necessity of clear roles and responsibilities, and the importance of effective communication and training. Through real-world examples and lessons learned, we will discuss the trials and tribulations faced during the process, including navigating bureaucratic hurdles, achieving cross-departmental alignment, and maintaining momentum amidst organizational changes.

Participants will leave with practical strategies and best practices for establishing a robust and sustainable Data Governance Council that drives data integrity, compliance, and strategic value in a federal government setting.

Speaker: Robert (Bob) S. Seiner

Bob S. Seiner is the President and Principal of KIK Consulting & Educational Services and the Publisher Emeritus of The Data Administration Newsletter (TDAN.com). Bob has been awarded the DAMA Professional Award for significant and demonstrable contributions to the data management industry. Bob specializes in Non-Invasive Data Governance™, data stewardship, and metadata management solutions and has successfully assisted and mentored many notable organizations. Bob is an Adjunct Faculty Member at Carnegie Mellon University's (CMU) Heinz College Executive Education Chief Data & AI Officer (CDAIO) certificate program.

Speaker: Adrianna Steele

Ms. Steele is the current Data Enablement Branch Chief at FEMA’s Office of Policy and Program Analysis (OPPA). In this role she is responsible for conducting regular data maturity assessments, leading the creation and implementation of FEMA’s data strategy, and overseeing the development and management of FEMA’s Data Inventory Program, FEMA’s Data Policy and Procedures program, and the facilitation of FEMA’s Data Governance Council. Prior to this role, Ms. Steele was the Analytics Branch Chief for FEMA’s Field Operations, where she helped implement standard data analysis for Emergency Response Operations. In addition to working on domestic data management and analytical needs, she has also worked in the international development industry conducting monitoring and evaluation work for general budget assistance. Ms. Steele has an MSc in Development Economics from the University of Sussex in Brighton, England, and a BA in Economics from Villanova University.