DAMA International is guided by a dedicated leadership team committed to advancing the global data management profession. Our governance structure ensures strategic oversight, expert advisory input, and regional representation, enabling DAMA to serve its members effectively.

Board of Directors– Provides strategic direction, governance, and leadership for DAMA’s mission and initiatives. |
Regional Coordinators – Connect DAMA with local chapters, ensuring alignment with regional needs and best practices. |
Presidents Council– A collaborative forum for chapter presidents to share insights and strengthen the DAMA community. |
Staff Members – Provide operational support, ensuring the smooth execution of DAMA’s programs and initiatives. |
Together, this leadership framework fosters collaboration, innovation, and excellence in data management worldwide.
Governance Changes
Message from the President
I’m Peter Aiken, the President of DAMA International, and I’m thrilled to share some exciting changes with you.
We’re embarking on a transformative journey to enhance our governance structure. This shift from an operational to a strategic board is a pivotal step in our evolution, and here’s why it’s so important.
We want to hear from you!
The objective of this site is to clearly explain the governance changes outlined in DAMA International's new bylaws. We aim to provide our entire DAMA community with comprehensive information on how these changes will enhance transparency, engagement, and strategic direction within our organization and more broadly to the global data management community. These changes are designed to promote our values of equity, inclusion, and democracy. Through this platform, you can access detailed resources, participate in discussions, and stay informed about the transition process.
DAMA International is proud to announce a transformative change.
The world is changing, and to meet these new challenges, DAMA International (DAMA-I) must reposition itself. While everyone is talking about data, the conversation around data management is still emerging. DAMA plays a critical role as a governance and control mechanism in organizations, alongside data science and AI.
Our voice is increasingly recognized globally as we push for competent oversight, security, flexible structures, the preservation of humanity’s records, and a commitment to quality and ethical thinking. This drive is propelling the DAMA® DMBOK®, CDMP®, and DAMA®-I into the global spotlight. A new generation is eager to engage with the DAMA community, and we must demonstrate our commitment to them.
However, DAMA was established 40 years ago, for a different time and scale. Our bylaws need to reflect our growth and the evolving landscape. We need a DAMA that engages globally and locally with its members and chapters. We need a model that enables participation across countries and cultures.
Join us on this transformative journey as we continue to build a vibrant, inclusive, and forward-thinking global community.
New Bylaws – Enabling Change
We are excited to embark on the transformative journey assisted through our newly revised bylaws. The pivotal change outlined in the new bylaws marks a significant milestone in our commitment to fostering a more inclusive, transparent, and strategically-driven organization. By sharing governance responsibilities between individual members and member chapters, and transitioning to a strategic board of directors, we aim to create a cohesive and dynamic global community of data management experts. This evolution not only reflects the values of equity, inclusion, and democracy but also empowers our members by enhancing engagement and providing a clear strategic direction for our organization and the broader global data management community.
Our new bylaws mark a significant step in our journey, allowing us to share governance between individual members and member chapters while also transitioning from an operational to a strategic board of directors. This strategic move is designed to build a cohesive and dynamic global community of data management experts, echoing the success seen in other prestigious global professions.
What Does This Mean for Members – both Individual Central Members and DAMA Chapters?

Get Empowered
Gain a stronger voice and influence within DAMA International. Your contributions and insights will help to shape the future of our community.

Get Involved
Whether you are a Member of a Chapter Board or a DAMA International Central Member or a member of a local Chapter we invite everyone to actively participate in this transformation and beyond. Explore the resources, join discussions, and contribute your ideas.

Stay Informed
The transition doesn’t stop on September 1, 2024, when the bylaws become effective. It is a process that will continue beyond that date. Sign up for push notifications about the changes and let your voice be heard. Stay tuned for updates designed to keep you informed and engaged throughout this transition. Your involvement is crucial to the success of our new governance model. See under FAQ
Your voice, our future – united in excellence.
Why? The Rationale for the Bylaw Changes
The new bylaws represent a significant shift towards a governance model that prioritizes the voices and contributions of data management professionals from across the globe.
Who? Impacted Parties
The new bylaws will impact various stakeholders within DAMA International. Get a brief overview of how these changes will affect the different groups.
What? Major Changes in the New Bylaws
The new bylaws introduce several key changes designed to enhance the governance and operation of DAMA International. Take a look at the major changes.
When? Timeline of Changes
The timeline for implementing the new bylaws has been carefully planned to ensure a smooth transition from current state.
How? Steps Involved in the Transition
There are two major areas concerning the transition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about the top 15 questions, and submit your own in case you can't find your answer.