Career

How To Become An Information Governance Specialist In Massachusetts 2024

Learn everything you need to know about becoming an Information Governance Specialist, including salary, schools, and programs.

Information Governance Specialist in Massachusetts Career Overview

As an Information Governance Specialist, you play a vital role in managing and protecting information assets within organizations. Your responsibilities revolve around establishing policies and frameworks that ensure data is properly governed throughout its lifecycle.

Key aspects of your role include:

  • Data Management: You oversee the governance of data to ensure that it is accurate, accessible, and secure, aligning with the organization’s strategic objectives.

  • Regulatory Compliance: You ensure that the organization adheres to applicable laws and regulations regarding data protection and privacy, mitigating risks associated with data breaches and legal liabilities.

  • Strategy Development: Creating and implementing information governance strategies is essential, involving collaboration with various departments to meet organizational needs.

  • Risk Assessment: You assess potential risks related to information management and recommend measures to minimize these risks, thereby safeguarding sensitive information.

  • Best Practices Implementation: Adopting industry best practices for data management and security is part of your role, contributing to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of information handling in the organization.

  • Training and Awareness: Educating staff about information governance policies and practices is essential to foster a culture of accountability regarding data management.

Your function is increasingly important in a landscape where organizations are faced with growing volumes of data and evolving regulatory environments. Through effective information governance, you help organizations maintain integrity and trust while maximizing the value of their data assets.

Best Schools to become a Information Governance Specialist near Massachusetts 2024

#1Prince George's County

University of Maryland Global Campus

Adelphi, MD

In-State Tuition:$7,488
Out-of-State Tuition:$11,976
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:19%
Total Enrollment:55,838
#9Prince George's County

University of Maryland-College Park

College Park, MD

In-State Tuition:$9,695
Out-of-State Tuition:$37,931
Admission Rate:45%
Graduation Rate:89%
Total Enrollment:40,792
#10Allegheny County

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA

In-State Tuition:$59,864
Out-of-State Tuition:$59,864
Admission Rate:11%
Graduation Rate:92%
Total Enrollment:16,002
#6Wake County

Wake Technical Community College

Raleigh, NC

In-State Tuition:$2,432
Out-of-State Tuition:$8,576
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:31%
Total Enrollment:21,551

Information Governance Specialist Salary in Massachusetts

Annual Median: $111,640
Hourly Median: $53.67

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become an Information Governance Specialist in Massachusetts

To become an Information Governance Specialist, you will need to pursue specific educational qualifications and training. Here are the relevant college degree programs that can help you meet the requirements for this career:

  • Health Information Management
    This program focuses on managing patient data and health records, compliance with regulations, and ensuring the integrity of health information systems.

  • Information Resources Management
    This degree centers on the strategic management of information resources in organizations, covering areas such as data governance, data quality, and information lifecycle management.

  • Information Science Studies
    This program explores the principles of managing information, including the organization, retrieval, and analysis of data. It emphasizes theories and practical applications related to information systems.

  • Information Technology
    This degree provides a strong foundation in computer science and technology used in managing information systems, focusing on the implementation and maintenance of IT infrastructure.

  • Information Technology Project Management
    This program focuses on managing technology projects, including planning, executing, and overseeing IT initiatives related to information governance.

You may also consider pursuing certifications relevant to information governance, which can further enhance your qualifications and complement your formal education.

Best Schools to become a Information Governance Specialist near Massachusetts 2024

#1Prince George's County

University of Maryland Global Campus

Adelphi, MD

In-State Tuition:$7,488
Out-of-State Tuition:$11,976
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:19%
Total Enrollment:55,838
#9Prince George's County

University of Maryland-College Park

College Park, MD

In-State Tuition:$9,695
Out-of-State Tuition:$37,931
Admission Rate:45%
Graduation Rate:89%
Total Enrollment:40,792
#10Allegheny County

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA

In-State Tuition:$59,864
Out-of-State Tuition:$59,864
Admission Rate:11%
Graduation Rate:92%
Total Enrollment:16,002
#6Wake County

Wake Technical Community College

Raleigh, NC

In-State Tuition:$2,432
Out-of-State Tuition:$8,576
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:31%
Total Enrollment:21,551
Information Governance Specialist Job Description:
  • Implement and administer enterprise-wide document management systems and related procedures that allow organizations to capture, store, retrieve, share, and destroy electronic records and documents.

Information Governance Specialist Required Skills and Competencies in Massachusetts

  • Analytical Thinking: You need to analyze complex data sets and regulatory requirements, identifying trends and potential risks associated with information governance.

  • Attention to Detail: Precision is essential, as you will be responsible for ensuring compliance with legal and organizational standards by meticulously reviewing policies, processes, and data.

  • Communication Skills: You must effectively convey complex information governance concepts to diverse stakeholders, including executives, IT teams, and compliance personnel.

  • Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with data management technologies, software tools, and databases is important for creating systems that support data governance activities.

  • Regulatory Knowledge: Understanding privacy laws, data protection regulations, and industry standards relevant to information governance is crucial for ensuring organizational compliance.

  • Project Management: You should demonstrate the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely completion while adhering to budget and resource constraints.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: The capacity to identify challenges related to information governance and develop practical solutions is essential for maintaining effective governance practices.

  • Interpersonal Skills: Building relationships across various departments is important, as collaboration is often necessary for successful information governance initiatives.

  • Change Management: Ability to guide organizations through changes in information governance processes and policies, ensuring that all members adjust smoothly to new systems.

  • Risk Management: You must assess potential risks related to data handling and governance, developing strategies to mitigate these risks to safeguard organizational data.

Job Duties for Information Governance Specialists

  • Assist in determining document management policies to facilitate efficient, legal, and secure access to electronic content.

  • Assist in the development of document or content classification taxonomies to facilitate information capture, search, and retrieval.

  • Implement electronic document processing, retrieval, and distribution systems in collaboration with other information technology specialists.

Technologies and Skills Used by Information Governance Specialists

Document management software

  • Adobe Acrobat
  • Records management software

Enterprise resource planning ERP software

  • Microsoft Dynamics
  • Oracle PeopleSoft Financials

Video creation and editing software

  • Apple Final Cut Pro
  • WeVideo

Basic Skills

  • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
  • Reading work related information

People and Technology Systems

  • Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
  • Measuring how well a system is working and how to improve it

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Job Market and Opportunities for Information Governance Specialist in Massachusetts

The job market for Information Governance Specialists in Massachusetts reflects a growing demand within organizations that prioritize data management, compliance, and risk mitigation. As businesses increasingly recognize the importance of data governance, several trends and opportunities are emerging in this field.

  • High Demand: Organizations across various sectors, including healthcare, finance, and technology, are ramping up their focus on information governance. This increases the need for professionals who can develop and oversee policies and procedures that ensure data integrity and compliance with regulations.

  • Growth Potential: The Information Governance sector is poised for growth, influenced by evolving regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), which are prompting companies to reassess their data management strategies. This has led to job creation as companies seek to fill roles related to data governance and compliance.

  • Geographical Hotspots: Massachusetts features several key areas where opportunities for Information Governance Specialists are concentrated, including:

    • Boston: As a hub for technology and healthcare, Boston hosts numerous companies and institutions that require information governance expertise. The abundance of startups and established enterprises in the tech space creates a dynamic environment for career opportunities.

    • Cambridge: Known for its innovation and research institutions, Cambridge is home to many biotech and pharmaceutical companies, which are committed to rigorous data governance practices. This creates a strong job market for specialists skilled in managing sensitive information.

    • Waltham: This area has seen significant growth in tech firms and consultancies that service various industries, further enhancing the demand for Information Governance Specialists.

  • Industry Variety: Beyond traditional sectors, emerging fields such as artificial intelligence and data analytics are creating additional job opportunities. Companies in these areas often require specialized knowledge in information governance to align their data operations with best practices and regulatory requirements.

  • Networking Opportunities: Massachusetts hosts various professional organizations, conferences, and workshops that focus on data management and governance. Networking in these forums can provide valuable connections and insights into job openings and industry trends.

The job market for Information Governance Specialists in Massachusetts offers robust opportunities. By staying informed about industry developments and participating in networking initiatives, you can improve your prospects in this expanding field.

Top Related Careers to Information Governance Specialist 2024

Digital Records Coordinator
Enterprise Document Administrator
Content Compliance Manager
Electronic Records Analyst

Additional Resources To Help You Become an Information Governance Specialist in Massachusetts

  • The Information Governance Initiative (IGI)
    A leading organization focused on advancing the discipline of information governance, providing whitepapers, case studies, and best practices.
    Visit IGI

  • ARMA International
    An authoritative body in records and information management, offering various resources, training, and certification programs.
    Visit ARMA

  • The International Society for Information Governance (ISIG)
    Offers resources for professionals in the field, including webinars, articles, and networking opportunities.
    Visit ISIG

  • DGI — Data Governance Institute
    Provides frameworks, best practices, and a wealth of resources related to data governance and its components.
    Visit DGI

  • National Archives and Records Administration (NARA)
    Offers guidance on federal information governance policies and practices, useful for understanding compliance and regulatory issues.
    Visit NARA

  • Information Governance & Compliance (IGC) Conference
    Attend this annual conference for professionals to network and stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in information governance.
    Visit IGC

  • Society for Information Management (SIM)
    Provides leadership development and education for information management professionals. Membership includes access to numerous industry resources and networks.
    Visit SIM

  • LinkedIn Learning
    Offers various online courses related to information governance, data management, and compliance that are valuable for skill development.
    Visit LinkedIn Learning

  • Harvard Business Review
    Articles and case studies on information governance as it relates to business strategy, risk management, and technology.
    Visit HBR

  • The Legal Information Governance and Data Compliance Guide
    A resource for understanding the legal aspects of information governance, including compliance with data protection regulations.
    Visit the Guide

Utilizing these resources can significantly enhance your understanding and skills as you pursue a career in information governance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Information Governance Specialist in Massachusetts

  • What is an Information Governance Specialist?
    An Information Governance Specialist is responsible for developing and managing policies and procedures related to data management, privacy, compliance, and information security within an organization. They ensure that data is accurate, protected, and available for use while adhering to regulatory requirements.

  • What qualifications do I need to become an Information Governance Specialist?
    Typically, you will need a bachelor’s degree in fields such as information management, business administration, or a related area. Many employers prefer candidates with relevant certifications, such as Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP) or Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA).

  • What skills are essential for this role?
    Key skills include:

    • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
    • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
    • Knowledge of data protection laws and regulations (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA)
    • Familiarity with information management systems and tools
    • Ability to work collaboratively with various departments

  • What is the job outlook for Information Governance Specialists in Massachusetts?
    The job outlook is promising, with an increasing emphasis on data governance and compliance due to the growing importance of data security. Companies across various sectors are hiring specialists to manage their data strategies and adhere to regulatory standards.

  • What industries employ Information Governance Specialists?
    Information Governance Specialists are found in several industries, including:

    • Healthcare
    • Financial services
    • Technology
    • Legal services
    • Government agencies

  • How much can I expect to earn as an Information Governance Specialist in Massachusetts?
    Salaries can vary widely based on experience, industry, and organization size, but the average salary typically ranges from $80,000 to $120,000 per year.

  • What are typical job responsibilities for an Information Governance Specialist?
    Responsibilities may include:

    • Developing and implementing information governance frameworks
    • Conducting data audits and risk assessments
    • Training staff on data governance policies
    • Monitoring compliance with data protection regulations
    • Collaborating with IT and legal teams to ensure data integrity and confidentiality

  • Can I advance my career as an Information Governance Specialist?
    Yes, there are numerous opportunities for advancement. With experience, you can move into senior roles such as Data Governance Manager or Director of Information Governance. Further certifications or advanced degrees can also enhance your career prospects.

  • What professional organizations exist for Information Governance professionals?
    Organizations such as the Information Governance Initiative (IGI) and the Association for Information and Image Management (AIIM) offer resources, networking opportunities, and certifications for professionals in the field.

  • Are there any continuing education requirements for this role?
    While specific continuing education requirements may not exist, staying updated with the latest regulations, technologies, and best practices in information governance is essential. Many professionals participate in workshops, conferences, and online courses to enhance their knowledge.