Looking for Risk & Assurance Manager jobs in IT and Information Security? This critical senior role sits at the intersection of technology, security, and business governance. Professionals in this field act as key guardians, ensuring that an organization's IT and cybersecurity postures are robust, compliant, and aligned with strategic objectives. They bridge the gap between technical teams and executive leadership, translating complex risks into actionable business insights. A Risk & Assurance Manager typically operates within the second or third line of defense, providing independent oversight of IT and infosec risk management activities. Their core mission is to embed a culture of proactive risk management across all technology domains. This involves designing, implementing, and maintaining comprehensive risk and control frameworks. They commonly leverage established standards like ISO 27001, NIST Cybersecurity Framework, COBIT, and ITIL to structure these efforts, ensuring alignment with both regulatory requirements (such as GDPR, SOX, or industry-specific mandates) and internal business goals. Day-to-day responsibilities are diverse and strategic. Practitioners often own and manage IT Risk and Control Matrices (RCMs), ensuring controls are effectively designed and operating as intended. They partner closely with IT, security, and business unit leaders to assess risks associated with new projects, operational processes, and third-party vendors. A significant part of the role involves coordinating and fronting audit and certification activities, serving as the primary point of contact for internal and external auditors for standards like ISO 27001 or SOC 2. They review the effectiveness of first-line security functions, testing key controls in areas like access management, change control, vulnerability management, and incident response. Furthermore, they are responsible for reporting on the state of IT risk to senior management and audit committees, providing clear, concise updates on risk exposure, control deficiencies, and remediation progress. To excel in these jobs, candidates typically need a blend of deep technical understanding and strong business acumen. Essential skills include a thorough knowledge of IT governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) principles and hands-on experience with relevant frameworks. Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills are paramount, as the role requires influencing technical teams and executive boards alike. Analytical thinking, project management capabilities, and a meticulous eye for detail are crucial. Most positions require several years of experience in IT risk management, internal audit, or information security, often with a professional certification such as CISA, CRISC, CISM, or CISSP. For those seeking a career that combines technical expertise with strategic impact, Risk & Assurance Manager jobs offer a challenging and rewarding path at the heart of modern organizational resilience.
