At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Microsoft-first identity security strategy and enhance identity threat detection.
- Company: WTW, an inclusive employer supporting the LGBTQ+ community.
- Benefits: 25 days annual leave, private healthcare, hybrid working, and a pension scheme.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with opportunities for professional growth and community involvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cybersecurity while working with cutting-edge technologies.
- Qualifications: Extensive IAM experience and expertise in Microsoft Entra ID and passwordless authentication.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
This job is with WTW, an inclusive employer and a member of my Gwork – the largest global platform for the LGBTQ+ business community. Please do not contact the recruiter directly.
- Description
- The
Principal Microsoft Identity Security Specialist will play a key role within the Global Information and Cyber Security Defence function, leading the organisation’s Microsoft-first identity security strategy.
The role is responsible for strengthening the identity security posture through the design, implementation, and optimisation of Microsoft Entra ID, Conditional Access, Identity Protection, Privileged Identity Management, passwordless authentication, and Zero Trust-aligned controls.
The specialist will support the organisation’s transition to phishing-resistant and passwordless authentication, reduce identity-based risk, and ensure secure identity governance across enterprise, hybrid, Saa S, and multi-cloud environments including AWS, GCP, and OCI.
They will also support the use of Agentic AI and automation to enhance identity threat detection, investigation, and response.
The Role
- Contribute to the design, implementation, and optimisation of Microsoft Entra ID as the organisation's strategic identity platform.
- Deliver and maintain Zero Trust identity controls, including strong authentication, least privilege, and continuous verification.
- Configure, administer, and enhance Conditional Access, Identity Protection, and risk-based access controls.
- Enable the adoption of phishing-resistant authentication technologies, including FIDO2 passkeys, Windows Hello for Business, hardware-backed credentials, and Certificate-Based Authentication.
- Support Privileged Identity Management (PIM), Just-in-Time (JIT) access, privileged access governance, and administrative access controls.
- Contribute to identity governance initiatives, including access reviews, entitlement management, Joiner-Mover-Leaver processes, and role-based access control models.
- Support the secure integration and management of workforce identities, application identities, service principals, managed identities, and workload identities.
- Assist in the implementation and optimisation of Microsoft Defender for Cloud Apps controls to govern Saa S access, reduce shadow IT, and manage session-level risks.
- Support the detection, investigation, and remediation of identity-based threats, including credential compromise, token theft, privilege escalation, and lateral movement.
- Assist with the integration of identity telemetry and risk signals into Microsoft Sentinel and other SIEM/SOAR platforms.
- Support secure identity integration across AWS, GCP, OCI, and hybrid environments.
- Contribute to automation, operational efficiency, and continuous improvement initiatives through scripting, orchestration, and AI-driven capabilities.
- Assist in developing identity security standards, procedures, and technical documentation.
- Collaborate with security, cloud, infrastructure, and engineering teams to support identity security projects and strategic initiatives.
- Provide subject matter expertise, technical guidance, and stakeholder updates relating to identity security technologies and controls.
- Support the organisation's adoption of Agentic AI and automation capabilities to enhance identity threat detection, investigation, response, and operational effectiveness.
Qualifications
What you'll bring
- Extensive enterprise IAM experience with deep expertise in Microsoft Entra ID, Conditional Access, Identity Protection, PIM, and Identity Governance.
- Hands-on experience with passwordless authentication, Windows Hello for Business, FIDO2/passkeys, and Microsoft Defender for Cloud Apps.
- Strong knowledge of SAML, OAuth2, Open ID Connect, Kerberos, and modern authentication models.
- Experience integrating identity signals into SIEM/SOAR platforms, preferably Microsoft Sentinel.
- Proven experience securing identities across AWS, GCP, and OCI.
- Strong scripting or automation experience using Power Shell, Python, or similar.
- Strong understanding of Zero Trust architecture.
- Experience using AI/ML or Agentic AI within security operations is highly desirable.
- Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with Cyber Ark, Sail Point, or similar PAM/IGA platforms.
- Microsoft Identity and Security certifications.
- AWS, GCP, or OCI cloud certifications.
- CISSP, CCSP, or equivalent industry certifications.
What we offer
Enjoy a benefits package designed to help you thrive, both professionally and personally.
You'll receive 25 days of annual leave plus an extra WTW day to relax and recharge.
Our comprehensive health and wellbeing offering includes private healthcare, life insurance, group income protection, and regular health assessments, all giving you peace of mind.
Secure your future with our defined contribution pension scheme, featuring matched contributions up to 10% from the company.
We support your growth and balance with hybrid working options, access to an employee assistance programme, and a fully paid volunteer day to make a difference in your community.
On top of these, you can opt into a variety of additional perks including an electric vehicle car scheme, share scheme, cycle-to-work programme, dental and optical cover, critical illness protection, and much more.
Start making the most of your career and wellbeing with a range of benefits tailored for you.
Equal Opportunity Employer
We’re committed to equal employment opportunity and provide application, interview and workplace adjustments and accommodations to all applicants.
If you foresee any barriers, from the application process through to joining WTW, please email candidatehelpdesk@wtwco. com
Principal Microsoft Identity Security Specialist employer: WTW
WTW is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic work culture, offering a hybrid work model that promotes flexibility and work-life balance. Employees benefit from comprehensive health insurance and have ample opportunities for professional growth within the M&A team, making it an ideal environment for those looking to thrive in a collaborative and innovative setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Microsoft Identity Security Specialist
✨Get Involved in the Cybersecurity Community
Diving into the cybersecurity community is key for landing that full-time gig. Join forums like Reddit's r/cybersecurity or attend local meetups to connect with industry veterans and other job seekers. Networking is everything in this field—don’t just be a passive lurker!
✨Show Off Your Skills with Capture the Flag Competitions
Participate in Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions; these are not just a fun way to boost your skills but also a chance to showcase your talent to potential employers. Many companies, including WTW, love seeing candidates who actively engage in these challenges.
✨Tailor Your Online Presence
Make sure your LinkedIn and any professional profiles reflect your cybersecurity expertise. Share your projects, whether they’re personal or from a previous role, to catch the eye of hiring managers. This is how they’ll find your passion and commitment to the field!
✨Apply Directly Through WTW
Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at WTW. Applying directly can sometimes give you an edge, especially if you can mention that you've been following our work or engaging in the community.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Microsoft Identity Security Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show off your technical skills:In cybersecurity, it's crucial to highlight your technical prowess. Make sure your CV showcases specific skills like network security, penetration testing, or threat analysis. If you have relevant certifications (like CEH or CISSP), pop those on the front page to grab attention!
Tailor your portfolio for the role:Even for a full-time role, a portfolio can set you apart. If you've worked on any cybersecurity projects—be it CTF challenges, security assessments, or research papers—include these in your application. This demonstrates not just your skills, but also your hands-on experience!
Use real-world examples:When writing your cover letter, don’t just stick to your qualifications. Share real-world examples of how you’ve tackled security issues or vulnerabilities. This gives the hiring team at WTW insight into your practical problem-solving abilities and makes your application memorable.
Demonstrate your passion for cybersecurity:Cybersecurity is an ever-evolving field, so show us that you’re always learning! Mention any recent courses, webinars, or industry events you’ve attended. This not only exhibits your enthusiasm but also signals to WTW that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.
How to prepare for a job interview at WTW
✨Sharpen Your Technical Skills
For a role in cybersecurity, it’s essential to be up-to-date with the latest tools and techniques. Brush up on your knowledge of firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and vulnerability assessment tools. Be ready to discuss specific scenarios where you’ve applied these skills, as hands-on experience can really set us apart in interviews.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect the interviewers at WTW to throw in some hypothetical situations to see how you’d handle them. Think about common security breaches or incidents and be prepared to explain how you would respond. This not only shows your problem-solving skills but also your understanding of real-world cybersecurity challenges.
✨Highlight Your Certifications
Certifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or CEH can give you a significant edge in a full-time role in cybersecurity. Make sure to mention these during your interview and be prepared to discuss what you learned through those certifications and how they relate to the position at WTW.
✨Show Your Passion for Cybersecurity
Since you’re going for a full-time gig, showing genuine enthusiasm for the field can make all the difference. Share any personal projects, blogs, or communities you’re part of that relate to cybersecurity. This not only showcases your passion but also your commitment to staying engaged in this ever-evolving field.
