IAM Sr. Program Manager

Our client, a University based in Boston, is in need of an experienced contract Senior Program Manager to lead their Identity and Access Management (IAM) initiatives. This role is responsible for overseeing the strategic planning, implementation, and continuous improvement of IAM programs that ensure secure, efficient, and compliant access to university systems and data.

As the Senior Program Manager, you will lead multiple complex IAM projects, coordinate with diverse stakeholders across the university, and ensure the delivery of solutions that support the institution’s academic and administrative missions while maintaining the highest security standards.

It is a hybrid long-term role, expected to last for 12 months or more. It entails three days on site (at the campus) and two days working remotely.

Qualifications 

1.   Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Technology, Cybersecurity, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred.
2.   Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in IT program/project management, with at least 5 years specifically in Identity and Access Management, security, or related domains.
3.   Demonstrated experience with IAM technologies including Single Sign-On (SSO), Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), privileged access management (PAM), and identity governance solutions.
4.   Strong understanding of authentication protocols (SAML, OAuth, OIDC) and directory services (Active Directory, LDAP).
5.   Proven track record of managing large-scale IAM implementations in complex, distributed environments.
6.   Excellent project management skills with PMP, PRINCE2, or equivalent certification preferred.
7.   Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to translate technical concepts for non-technical stakeholders.

Other Requirements

1.   Deep understanding of IAM concepts, technologies, and best practices.
2.   Experience in a higher education environment is strongly preferred.
3.   Experience with Azure AD, AWS IAM, and Google Cloud Identity.
4.   Familiarity with SSO, identity federation, and lifecycle management.
5.   Knowledge of zero-trust security models and principles.
6.   Proven ability to lead and motivate cross-functional teams, demonstrating empathy and awareness of personality types.
7.   Effective at influencing and negotiating in matrixed environments without direct authority.
8.   Strong vendor and contract management experience.
9.   Skilled in managing multiple complex projects simultaneously.
10.   Familiarity with project management methodologies (e.g., PMI, Agile, PRINCE2) and tools.
11. Experience developing IAM roadmaps, maturity assessments, and aligning them with institutional strategic goals.
12. Comfortable navigating political environments and engaging with senior leadership.
13. Strong understanding of business needs and building customer trust and confidence.
14. Distinctive blend of business, IT, financial, and communication skills for a high-impact, visible role.
15. Exceptional verbal and written communication skills; skilled at managing customer expectations and presenting to executive audiences.
16. Creates clear documentation for both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
17. Understanding of IAM challenges in academic settings and lifecycle needs of students, faculty, and staff.
18. Awareness of how emerging technologies are applied in digital business and higher education contexts.