IAM Manager

12 Month Contract - Onsite Chicago

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Identity and Access Management (IAM) Manager to lead and execute an IAM strategy. In this role, you will be responsible for managing secure, compliant, and efficient access to systems and data, covering both on-premises and cloud environments. Working closely with IT, HR, Compliance, and other key departments, you'll enforce access policies and security controls, ensuring a secure digital environment for all stakeholders.

As IAM Manager, you will spearhead the implementation and maintenance of IAM solutions, manage a team of IAM specialists, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to align IAM practices across the organization.

Key Responsibilities

IAM Program Leadership:

• Develop and implement the overall IAM strategy, including user access provisioning, de-provisioning, role management, and identity lifecycle.
• Lead IAM initiatives focused on ensuring security, compliance, and operational efficiency in user access management.
• Evaluate and integrate IAM technologies such as Single Sign-On (SSO), Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), Privileged Access Management (PAM), and identity federation solutions.

Access Governance and Compliance:

• Establish and enforce IAM policies that align with regulatory requirements (e.g., HIPAA) and industry standards (e.g., NIST, ISO).
• Conduct regular audits and reviews to verify compliance with access policies and regulatory mandates, supporting internal and external audits.
• Manage access certification campaigns and lead efforts to remediate access-related risks.

Identity Lifecycle Management:

• Oversee the complete identity lifecycle management for employees, contractors, and partners, including onboarding, role changes, and offboarding (Joiners, Movers, Leavers).
• Implement and manage role-based access controls (RBAC) and other access models for secure and efficient access management.
• Collaborate with HR, IT, and business units to automate and streamline identity and access processes, incorporating self-service options where applicable.

Security and Risk Management:

• Identify and mitigate security risks related to IAM, ensuring best practices are maintained across the entire IAM ecosystem.
• Lead the deployment of authentication mechanisms and monitor their effectiveness in reducing identity-based security threats.
• Work alongside the Information Security team to manage IAM incident response and implement necessary compensating controls.

Technology and Process Optimization:

• Guide the integration of IAM solutions with other IT and security systems, optimizing workflows and enhancing program effectiveness.
• Implement and optimize IAM automation tools for identity provisioning, password management, and user access reviews.
• Stay ahead of emerging IAM technologies to support the organization's growth and evolving security needs.

Team Leadership and Development:

• Manage and mentor a team of IAM analysts and administrators, encouraging continuous improvement and development.
• Conduct training and awareness programs for team members and end-users, fostering a culture of secure access practices.
• Develop key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to measure the success of IAM programs and report on progress to senior leadership.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Information Security, Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• 3–5 years of experience in IAM, Information Security, or a related field, with at least 3 years in a leadership or managerial role.
• Relevant IAM or security certifications (e.g., CIAM, CISSP, CISM) are preferred.
• Strong technical expertise in IAM solutions, including experience with identity and access management tools and technologies.
• Excellent project management skills, with experience leading cross-functional initiatives.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present to senior management.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Information Security, Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• 5–7 years of experience in IAM or Information Security, with at least 5 years in a managerial or team lead role.

Key Competencies:

• IAM Expertise: Extensive knowledge of IAM technologies and best practices, including Active Directory, LDAP, SSO, MFA, PAM, and other access management tools.
• Project Management: Proven ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize initiatives, and drive results.
• Compliance and Governance: Strong understanding of regulatory requirements and frameworks, such as SOX, HIPAA, GDPR, NIST, and ISO standards.
• Communication: Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to explain complex IAM concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead, motivate, and develop a high-performing team in a collaborative and results-driven environment.

Why Join Us?

• Be a key player in shaping and securing our organization's digital ecosystem.
• Work with a diverse and dynamic team across various functions.
• Drive impactful initiatives that directly contribute to the organization's security and compliance posture.