Gwen Thomas

Founder, Data Governance Institute
Data Governance Expert, Strategist, and Educator

About Gwen Thomas

Gwen Thomas is a globally recognized leader in data governance, best known as the Founder of the Data Governance Institute (DGI) and the primary author of the DGI Framework, one of the most widely used resources in the field. Through her thought leadership, consulting, and education, she has influenced hundreds of data programs worldwide, shaping the way organizations approach data governance, policy, and strategy.

With a deep background in IT operations, data management, and governance consulting, Gwen has dedicated her career to helping organizations develop sustainable, business-aligned governance programs. She spent 10 years as an in-house data strategist at the World Bank Group’s private sector arm, where she worked to bridge the gap between executives, program leaders, governance teams, lawyers, architects, modelers, auditors, and data quality professionals.

Her unique strength lies in translating complex data governance concepts for non-technical teams, empowering them to become stronger advocates for their own data needs.

Expertise

Data Governance Frameworks: Creator of the widely adopted DGI Framework, a foundational model for data governance programs.

Enterprise Data Strategy: Helping organizations develop governance strategies that align with business objectives.

Industry/Vendor Positioning: Assisting software vendors recognize and promote offerings that meet users’ needs.

Regulatory Compliance & Risk Management: Assisting organizations in meeting legal and regulatory data requirements.

Stakeholder Alignment: Bridging communication gaps between executives, legal teams, auditors, and technical professionals.

Policy Development: Crafting data governance policies that balance control with business agility.

Data Advocacy for Non-Technical Teams: Enabling business leaders to champion their own data needs.

Sponsor Benefits

Partnering with Gwen Thomas offers:

Proven Frameworks: Leverage the DGI Framework, one of the most respected governance models in the industry.

Strategic Insights: Expertise in crafting governance programs that support compliance, innovation, and business goals.

Cross-Functional Alignment: Guidance on translating governance concepts across executive, legal, and technical teams.

Educational Leadership: Access to Gwen’s extensive training and resources for data governance professionals.

Global Experience: Lessons from working with international organizations, including the World Bank Group.

Highlights

Founder, Data Governance Institute: Established the first industry-recognized data governance framework and guidance.

Author of the DGI Framework: Developed a widely used methodology for structuring and implementing data governance programs.

World Bank Group Data Strategist: Spent a decade advising enterprise data initiatives in a global financial institution.

Educator & Thought Leader: Influenced data governance best practices through writing, speaking, and consulting.

Vendor Advisor: Counseled and wrote for multiple software companies in how to incorporate, label, promote, and market their offerings.

Industry Connector: Skilled at translating between executives, program leaders, legal teams, and technical experts.

Resources

Featured Framework: The DGI Data Governance Framework – A Value-Centric Approach.
On-Demand Webinar: Next Big Thing in Data with Gwen Thomas (Data Leaders series)

Featured in Major Publication (CIO): 3 Powerful Lessons of Using Data Governance Frameworks

Success Stories from the World Bank Group and Other Global Organizations:
- Leveraging Data Governance to Jumpstart an Access Management Program
- FIMA Webinar Series: Transforming Financial Institutions through Data Governance

Testimonials

"Gwen’s expertise in data governance is unparalleled. Her DGI Framework has been instrumental in shaping our enterprise strategy."
— Chief Data Officer, Fortune 500 Financial Institution

"She has a rare ability to translate complex governance concepts into actionable strategies that resonate with both executives and data teams."
— VP of Data Governance, Global Technology Company

Connect with Gwen

Follow Gwen: [LinkedIn]