M&T Bank Corporation

Principal First Line Risk Specialist - Cybersecurity and AI Initiatives

M&T Bank Corporation • $148K — $247K *
Buffalo, NY 14221In-Person
Information Technology
8 - 10 years of experience
Today
Be an Early Applicant
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree with 9+ years relevant experience or 13 years combined higher education/work experience
  • Expert knowledge of Technology and Cybersecurity risk principles
  • 8+ years experience in a specific risk area/business unit
  • Preferred Master's degree in a relevant field
  • Relevant certifications in risk and information systems such as CRISC, CISA, CISM, CISSP

Responsibilities

  • Develop and implement comprehensive risk frameworks for Cybersecurity and AI initiatives
  • Act as a risk advisor to engineering and architecture teams, identifying control gaps
  • Lead assessments of technology trends and regulatory guidance for compliance
  • Design and enhance risk management processes for evolving technologies
  • Collaborate with the CISO and senior leaders to provide risk-informed recommendations
  • Drive the development of new controls to address emerging risks
  • Lead audits, regulatory examinations, and risk assessments, ensuring remediation of findings

Benefits

  • Flexible work-from-home policy one day per week
  • Engagement in diverse technology and cybersecurity initiatives
  • Collaboration with senior leadership and cross-functional teams
  • Opportunity to influence risk management strategies at an organizational level
  • Environment that promotes belonging and reflects company values
Full Job Description
This role is four days onsite at our Seneca One Buffalo, NY location, with the flexibility to work from home one day per week
Overview:

Leads risk analysis and governance activities for emerging Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence (AI) initiatives, influencing the design of risk frameworks, controls, and standards that support evolving technologies. Provides expert guidance to senior leadership, engineering, and architecture teams to proactively identify, assess, and mitigate technology risks while ensuring alignment with regulatory expectations and organizational objectives.

Primary Responsibilities:
  • Develop and implement risk frameworks, controls, and standards supporting Cybersecurity and AI engineering capabilities, ensuring comprehensive coverage of emerging technologies.
  • Act as a first line of risk advisor to engineering, architecture, and security teams, proactively identifying risks, control gaps, and opportunities to strengthen governance.
  • Lead the assessment of emerging technology trends, regulatory guidance, and industry developments to ensure organizational readiness and compliance.
  • Design, enhance, and implement risk management processes, procedures, and standards that support new and evolving Cybersecurity and AI initiatives.
  • Partner directly with the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), senior technology leaders, engineers, and architects to evaluate strategic initiatives and provide risk-informed recommendations.
  • Drive the identification, development, and implementation of new controls to address emerging risks and strengthen the organization's risk posture.
  • Lead and support audit activities, regulatory examinations, and risk assessments, ensuring timely remediation of findings and sustainable control improvements.
  • Collaborate across Technology, Cybersecurity, AI, Enterprise Risk, Internal Audit, and Regulatory Affairs functions to align practices with business objectives and regulatory expectations.
  • Monitor and assess evolving threat landscapes and emerging technology risks, integrating advanced risk management methodologies to address changing business and regulatory requirements.
  • Prepare and present complex risk assessments, control evaluations, and recommendations to senior leadership and executive stakeholders.
  • Understand and adhere to the Company's risk and regulatory standards, policies, and controls in accordance with the Company's Risk Appetite. Identify risk-related issues requiring escalation to management.
  • Promote an environment that supports belonging and reflects the Company's values and culture.
  • Maintain internal control standards, including timely implementation of internal and external audit recommendations together with any issues raised by regulators as applicable.
  • Complete other related duties as assigned.

Scope of Responsibilities:
  • This position works closely with the CISO, senior engineering and architecture leaders, Cybersecurity leadership, Technology and Cybersecurity Risk leadership, Enterprise Risk, Internal Audit, Regulatory Affairs, and other senior stakeholders across the organization.
  • Serves as a key risk partner for Cybersecurity and AI engineering initiatives, applying significant judgment and expertise to identify emerging risks, evaluate control effectiveness, and recommend strategic solutions.
  • Exercises substantial independence in determining approaches to risk management, control design, and governance activities for emerging technologies, while collaborating with executive stakeholders on critical decisions.
  • May represent the organization during regulatory examinations, audits, and governance reviews related to Cybersecurity, AI, and emerging technology risk management.
  • Functions as a subject matter expert on Cybersecurity and AI risk, advising leadership on industry trends, regulatory developments, control design, and risk mitigation strategies.

Supervisory/Managerial Responsibilities:

No supervisory responsibilities.

Education and Experience Required:
  • Bachelor's degree and a minimum of 9 years' relevant work experience, or in lieu of a degree, a combined minimum of 13 years' higher education and/or work experience
  • Demonstrated expert knowledge of Technology and Cybersecurity risk principles
  • Minimum of 8 years' relevant work experience in and/or with the specific risk area and/or business unit

Education and Experience Preferred:
  • Master's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Law, Business Administration, or related field
  • Applicable certification align to function or domain such as Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC®), Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
  • Experience supporting Cybersecurity, AI, and emerging technology initiatives, including risk assessments, governance, and control design.
  • Proven ability to identify control gaps, develop new controls, and implement risk mitigation strategies within a first line of risk environment.
  • Experience developing processes, procedures, standards, and risk frameworks that support cybersecurity programs, AI adoption, and evolving technology capabilities.
  • Strong understanding of emerging technology trends, cybersecurity risks, and regulatory guidance related to AI and information security.
  • Experience partnering directly with senior leaders, engineering and architecture teams, and executive stakeholders, including the CISO, to provide risk-informed recommendations and influence strategic decision-making.
  • Experience supporting audits, regulatory examinations, and control reviews, with a demonstrated ability to proactively identify risks, drive remediation efforts, and communicate effectively with both technical and business audiences.


M&T Bank is committed to fair, competitive, and market-informed pay for our employees. The pay range for this position is $148,300.00 - $247,100.00 Annual (USD). The successful candidate's particular combination of knowledge, skills, and experience will inform their specific compensation.

Location
Buffalo, New York, United States of America

About M&T Bank Corporation

M&T Bank is a financial holding company headquartered in Buffalo, New York. M&T's principal banking subsidiary, M&T Bank, operates banking offices in New York, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Connecticut, Virginia, West Virginia, and the District of Columbia. Trust-related services are provided by M&T's Wilmington Trust-affiliated companies and by M&T Bank. M&T Bank traces its origins to the founding of Manufacturers and Traders Bank in Buffalo, New York. As a result of mergers, acquisitions, and name changes, M&T Bank Corporation's principal bank is now known as Manufacturers and Traders Trust Company or M&T Bank. M&T Bank reorganized under a bank holding company in 1969 called First Empire State Corporation. The name was changed in 1998 to M&T Bank Corporation, whose common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange and trades under the symbol "MTB."

M&T Bank Corporation Careers

Join the vibrant team at M&T Bank Corporation, a leading financial institution where innovation meets tradition, offering a plethora of job opportunities across various sectors. As one of the most respected banks in the nation, M&T Bank Corporation is the perfect place to jumpstart or advance your career in the financial services industry.

Work You’ll Do

At M&T Bank Corporation, you will be part of a culture that cherishes diversity, leadership, and professional growth. Engage in work that makes a real difference in the community while fostering your career development through comprehensive training programs and diverse learning opportunities.

Innovate and Lead

Embrace the chance to work on projects that integrate cutting-edge financial technologies with robust, traditional banking practices. M&T Bank Corporation is at the forefront of the financial industry, offering innovative solutions that redefine banking standards. Our leadership in the market is driven by a commitment to excellence and continuous improvement.

Career Growth and Opportunities

Whether you are looking for an entry-level position or a more senior role, M&T Bank Corporation provides a dynamic pathway for career advancement. With a variety of job opportunities ranging from internships to full-time positions, you can find the perfect match for your skills and ambitions. Our team is dedicated to helping you navigate your career path with tailored development plans and leadership training.

Join Our Team

Explore job opportunities and join a team that values hard work, creativity, and strategic thinking. M&T Bank Corporation is hiring professionals who are passionate about finance and eager to contribute to a team-oriented environment. Enhance your skills through hands-on experience and ongoing professional development.

Networking and Professional Development

At M&T Bank Corporation, networking and professional development are part of our DNA. Connect with industry leaders, participate in high-impact networking events, and take advantage of our mentorship programs. Our employees benefit from a supportive network that boosts their career trajectories and fosters meaningful professional relationships.

Benefits and Culture

Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that supports both your professional and personal life. M&T Bank Corporation offers competitive salaries, health benefits, and retirement plans designed to ensure the well-being of our team members and their families. Experience a supportive and inclusive culture where every employee is valued and given the opportunity to thrive.

How to Apply

Ready to take the next step in your career? Visit the M&T Bank Corporation Careers page to browse current openings, submit your resume, and prepare for your interview. We are excited to see how your skills and ideas can contribute to our continued growth and success.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest from M&T Bank Corporation by following our careers blog. Gain insights from our experts and stay informed about new job openings and upcoming networking events. Join M&T Bank Corporation today and be part of a team that is dedicated to growth, innovation, and leadership in the banking industry. Your future starts here!
Learn more about M&T Bank Corporation
Size
17,115 employees
Market Cap
$25.2 billion
Industry
Finance & Insurance
Net Income
$1.3 billion
Founded
1868
5 Year Trend
+0.2%
NASDAQ
MTB
* Ladders Estimates

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