Northwestern Mutual

Assistant Director, Privileged Access Management (PAM)

Northwestern Mutual$160K — $240K *
Information Technology
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree preferred in engineering, computer science, information systems, or related field.
  • 8 years of progressive IAM experience, with at least 3 years managing a PAM program.
  • Hands-on experience with enterprise PAM platforms like CyberArk and Hashicorp Vault.
  • Demonstrated ability in automated secrets management and EP access processes.
  • Strong people management and interpersonal skills for multi-team oversight.
  • Proven analytical, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities.

Responsibilities

  • Define and execute the IAM/PAM strategy and roadmap.
  • Own the end-to-end PAM program and manage various access frameworks and controls.
  • Manage people-related responsibilities including communication, coaching, and staff development.
  • Oversee functional management to ensure quality and adherence to strategies and budgets.
  • Translate the departmental strategy to operational IAM security objectives.
  • Partner with IAM teams to implement Elevated Privilege access controls.
  • Guide the business unit in risk assessment and risk management strategies.

Benefits

  • People-first management approach fostering team development.
  • Opportunity to lead a significant PAM program and impact business outcomes.
  • Collaborative environment working with multiple IAM teams.
  • Focus on automation and efficiency in operations.
Full Job Description

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Assistant Director of IAM to lead and mature our Privileged Access Management (PAM) team. This is a people-first management role responsible for a large team of engineers and analysts.

You will work as an engineering leader responsible for strategy, delivery, and operation of our enterprise PAM Program—driving automation of Elevated Privilege (EP) discovery and vaulting, managing EP access requests and certifications, non-human identity (NHI) governance and management, and delivering zero standing privilege and just-in-time access at scale.

Success in this role requires operating at a high tempo while maintaining strong operational disciple and driving automation, continuous improvement, and measurable impact for our customers and the business. We are looking for an Assistant Director with experience in building high-performing teams, influencing stakeholders, and delivering measurable business outcomes.

What You'll be doing

  • Define and execute the multi-year IAM/PAM strategy and roadmap aligned to business priorities, risk reduction, and regulatory compliance.

  • Own the end-to-end PAM program: non-human identity and agentic AI security frameworks and access control, secrets lifecycle management, service account certifications, PAM tooling capability development and deployment, and reporting.

  • Accountable for a full range of people manager responsibilities including communication, coaching, mentoring and staff development, performance management, salary administration, and staffing decisions.

  • Perform functional management duties to ensure optimum effectiveness and quality by managing adherence to strategies, goals, budgets, operating policies and procedures as an NM frontline manager.

  • Accountable for translating the departmental strategy to IAM security operational objectives (OKR) including both systems and processes. Drives for results through others to include:

    • Integrating and designing measurement systems, targets and specific initiatives in support of the various strategies.

    • Partner with other IAM teams, including IGA, Directory Services, and Cloud IAM, to implement Elevated Privilege access controls across all applications and systems.

  • Accountable for providing guidance and escalation avenues for the business unit based on understanding the business values, goals, work processes and workflows.

  • Accountable for evaluation, review and approval of risk assessment and risk management strategies and processes to establish a foundation for appropriately managing systems and data risks.

What You'll Bring to the Role

  • Bachelor’s degree preferred; bachelor’s or advanced degree in engineering, computer science, information systems, or related field.

  • Eight (8) years of progressive IAM experience, with 3+ years running a PAM program.

  • Hands-on experience implementing and operating enterprise PAM platforms such as CyberArk and Hashicorp Vault.

  • Proven delivery of automated secrets management, agentic AI controls, EP access requests and certifications, just-in-time access, and role engineering at scale.

  • Proven people management skills to include human relations and interpersonal skills necessary to manage multiple teams.

  • Proven ability to build effective teams committed to organizational goals.

  • Proven analytical abilities especially in decision making and problem solving.

  • Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and the ability to handle ambiguity.

  • Proven ability to cultivate relationships and counsel key business partners within all levels of the organization. Strong stakeholder management skills.

  • Experience with Agile methodologies/DevSecOps environment desired.

  • Relevant security certifications (CISM, CISSP, CCSP, etcetera) are desired.

What Sets you Apart:

  • Ability to identify and cultivate relationships with key stakeholders representing a broad range of functions and levels to ensure alignment with departmental and enterprise business strategies.

  • Ability to influence others through a combination of active listening, conveying and asserting complex ideas in simple terms, and persuading others.

  • Accountable for an effective and efficient business unit designed and maintained to support the business outcomes. Responsible for the integration of:

    • Organization/department design and structure

    • Workforce management (forecasting, obtaining, developing and assigning the right resources)

    • Effective and efficient internal workflow and processes

    • Information and knowledge flows throughout the business unit and out to the organization through both formal and informal exchanges

  • You identify with and exhibit the values of accountability, bias for action, engineering excellence, and a customer first mindset.

#LI-Hybrid

Compensation Range:

Pay Range - Start:

$160,000.00

Pay Range - End:

$240,000.00

Geographic Specific Pay Structure:

Structure 110:


Structure 115:



We believe in fairness and transparency. It’s why we share the salary range for most of our roles. However, final salaries are based on a number of factors, including the skills and experience of the candidate; the current market; location of the candidate; and other factors uncovered in the hiring process. The standard pay structure is listed but if you’re living in California, New York City or other eligible location, geographic specific pay structures, compensation and benefits could be applicable, click to learn more.


About Northwestern Mutual

Northwestern Mutual has been helping people and businesses achieve financial security for more than 160 years. Through a holistic planning approach, Northwestern Mutual combines the expertise of its financial professionals with a personalized digital experience and industry-leading products to help its clients plan for what's most important. Northwestern Mutual delivers financial security to millions with life, disability income and long-term care insurance, annuities, and brokerage and advisory services. The company manages billion of dollars of investments owned by its clients and held or managed through its wealth management and investment services businesses. Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM), Milwaukee, WI (life and disability insurance, annuities, and life insurance with long-term care benefits) and its subsidiaries. Subsidiaries include Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (NMIS) (securities), broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, member FINRA and SIPC; the Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company® (NMWMC) (fiduciary and fee-based financial planning services), federal savings bank; and Northwestern Long Term Care Insurance Company (NLTC) (long-term care insurance).

Northwestern Mutual Careers

Joining Northwestern Mutual presents a unique opportunity to be part of a team that is dedicated to empowering personal and professional growth, innovation, and leadership in the financial services industry. As a company renowned for its commitment to excellence and a culture that values diversity and inclusion, Northwestern Mutual offers unparalleled job opportunities for both seasoned professionals and those at the start of their careers.

Work You’ll Do

At Northwestern Mutual, we believe in building strong relationships not only with our clients but also among our team members. By joining our team, you will collaborate with some of the most talented professionals in the industry, all united in their commitment to leadership and innovation. Our employees are equipped with top-tier benefits and diversity training that ensure their career journey is both rewarding and inclusive.

Explore Professional Growth and Development

Northwestern Mutual is committed to fostering an environment where career growth is not just a possibility but a priority. With a variety of positions available, from financial representatives to internships for budding professionals, our company is a place where your skills and passion can thrive. We provide extensive training programs and leadership development opportunities that prepare you for success in your current role and beyond.

Innovative Work Environment

Our team at Northwestern Mutual is at the forefront of integrating cutting-edge technology and innovative financial strategies to provide exceptional service to our clients. This focus on innovation is not just about staying current; it's about leading the way in the financial sector. Employees at all levels are encouraged to contribute ideas and take initiative, driving the company forward as a leader in the financial industry.

Be Part of Our Diverse and Inclusive Team

Diversity and inclusion are more than just buzzwords at Northwestern Mutual; they are integral to our company culture and business strategy. We are committed to creating a workplace where all employees can flourish. Our diversity training programs are designed to enhance understanding and foster an inclusive environment for all team members.

Networking and Career Advancement

Networking within Northwestern Mutual opens doors to expansive career advancement opportunities. We encourage our employees to engage in internal networking events, which often lead to mentorship and further career development. Whether you are looking to enhance your resume, prepare for an interview, or step into a leadership role, Northwestern Mutual provides the resources and support to help you achieve your professional goals.

Join Our Team

Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We are looking for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players who are ready to take their career to the next level. Explore the job opportunities and internships available at Northwestern Mutual and find out how you can contribute to our legacy of innovation and leadership.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding career opportunities that await at Northwestern Mutual.

SEARCH NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL JOBS

Join us and start your journey at Northwestern Mutual today, where your career is nurtured, your skills are honed, and your achievements are celebrated.
Learn more about Northwestern Mutual
Size
7,000 employees
Industry

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