VP, Principal IAM Architect

The Synchrony Identity and Access Management (IAM) team is seeking an experienced IAM Solution Architect to lead the design, development and implementation of enterprise IAM solutions. This role is critical to ensuring secure, seamless, and scalable identity services across the Synchrony organization. You will collaborate with business stakeholders, technology teams, and security leadership to define architectural strategies and deliver modern identity solutions that support our digital transformation initiatives. Responsibilities Lead the design and architecture of IAM solutions spanning authentication, authorization, privileged access and lifecycle management. Serve as a subject matter expert (SME) in IAM technologies, standards, and frameworks (eg. SAML, OIDC, OAuth2, SCIM, PAM, RBAC/ABAC). Partner with IT and security teams to integrate IAM platforms with enterprise systems, cloud services (AWS, Azure, GCP), and SaaS applications. Define and maintain IAM architectural roadmaps, reference architectures, and design patterns. Provide technical leadership during vendor evaluations, product selection, and solution implementation. Guide and mentor IT engineering teams on IAM best practices, secure coding, and integration methods. Ensure compliance with security, privacy, and regulatory requirements (eg. SOX, GDPR, PCI). Conduct risk assessments, threat modeling, and security reviews related to IAM solutions. Stay current with industry trends, emerging IAM technologies, and evolving threat landscapes. Perform other duties and/or special projects as assigned. Qualifications BS/BA in Computer Science or other technical degree or Business Management with 8 years of IT experience; or High School Diploma/GED with 12 years of IT experience. 5+ years of experience in IAM, or an information security domain, with specialized subject matter expertise in Identity & Access Management. Proven experience designing and implementing IAM solutions in enterprise and hybrid-cloud environments. Strong knowledge of IAM tools such as SailPoint, Okta, CyberArk, Delinea, Microsoft Entra ID, and directory services (eg. Active Directory). Deep understanding of identity protocols (SAML, OAuth 2.0, OIDC, LDAP, SCIM). 3+ years experience with Cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and their IAM models. Demonstrated ability to translate business requirements into scalable, secure IAM architectures. Desirable: Master’s degree in information security or related field; industry-recognized security certifications (eg. CISSP, CISM, CCSP, CASP, Okta Certified Architect, SailPoint IdentityIQ Engineer/Architect, Microsoft Certified: IAM Associate or CISA). 10+ years of experience designing mission-critical technology, security, or IAM solutions in a large, highly-regulated enterprise. Strong executive presence and ability to communicate technical strategy to diverse audiences. Ability to drive cross-functional change and align IAM initiatives with business goals. Experience with Zero Trust Architecture and Privileged Access Management (PAM). Familiarity with DevSecOps practices and automation in IAM (Terraform, Ansible, CI/CD pipelines). Experience working with vendors and service providers; demonstrated security program leadership, facilitation, and customer service. Self-starter with urgency and flexibility to adapt to changing directions. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Understanding of financial security and regulatory standards (SOX IT-404, PCI, NIST, FFIEC). Knowledge of cyber defense and information security policies, procedures, and regulations; knowledge of IT risk management policies and procedures. Compensation and Benefits The salary range for this position is 155,000.00 - 260,000.00 USD annually and is eligible for an annual bonus based on individual and company performance. Actual compensation offered within the posted range will depend on experience, skill level and knowledge. Salaries are adjusted according to market in CA, NY Metro and Seattle. Eligibility and Commitments You must be 18 years or older. You must have a high school diploma or equivalent. You must be willing to take a drug test, submit to a background investigation and provide fingerprints as part of onboarding. You must be able to satisfy the requirements of Section 19 of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. Our Commitment: When you join us, you’ll be part of an inclusive culture where your skills and voice are valued. We are committed to creating an environment where everyone belongs and can contribute. 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Created: 2025-09-21