Who should be assigned as data owner for sensitive customer data used only by the sales department and stored in a central database?

Assigning the head of the sales department as the data owner for sensitive customer data aligns with best practices in information risk management. The head of the sales department is likely to have the most context and understanding of how customer data is utilized within the team’s operations. They are responsible for making strategic decisions regarding the data and ensuring it is used in compliance with relevant regulations and policies.

As a data owner, this individual has the authority to establish access controls, implement data protection measures, and define how the data should be managed and utilized. This responsibility encompasses ensuring proper handling of sensitive customer information to mitigate risks associated with data breaches or misuse.

While other roles such as the database administrator, sales department as a whole, or the chief information officer may have valuable perspectives on data management, they are not primarily tasked with the accountability and governance surrounding the specific data in question. The database administrator typically focuses on managing and maintaining the technology that stores the data rather than owning the data itself. The sales department collectively may use the data, but accountability should reside with a specific individual. The chief information officer has a broader role in the organization regarding overall information management and strategy, rather than the tactical ownership of specific data sets. Therefore, designating the head of the sales department