Director of Engineering, Cyber GRC Data, AI & Automation

We’re looking for a Director of Engineering to lead the technology transformation of how we use data, AI, automation, and modern engineering capabilities across Cyber Governance, Risk & Compliance (GRC) within our Information Security & Risk organization. In this role, you’ll lead the engineering capabilities that enable more connected, data-driven, and automated approaches to security risk and assurance. You’ll own the strategy and technical roadmap for GRC data, analytics, AI, automation, and platforms with a focus on measurable outcomes including reduced manual effort, greater automation and control visibility, stronger data quality, and improved risk decision-making.

You’ll have the opportunity to

• Shape and communicate a multi-year Cyber GRC technology strategy and roadmap, prioritizing engineering, data, AI, analytics, and automation investments that advance security risk management, organizational priorities, and the future GRC operating model
• Modernize GRC technology and platforms, including ServiceNow IRM, Snowflake, Microsoft technologies, Power BI, integrations, and related solutions, while strengthening scalability, resiliency, reliability, and sustainable delivery
• Build trusted data, cybersecurity analytics, and risk intelligence capabilities that strengthen visibility and decision-making across controls, vulnerabilities, security awareness and phishing, compliance, assurance, and emerging risk
• Advance AI, intelligent automation, and Continuous Controls Monitoring to streamline processes, automate evidence and controls activities, and reduce manual effort while establishing appropriate governance, security, monitoring, human oversight, and performance measurement
• Establish modern engineering and data practices across architecture, development, integration, data governance, AI, and automation to deliver secure, reusable, and sustainable solutions
• Influence technology strategy and decisions across GRC, Information Security, Technology, Enterprise Data, Audit, and Compliance, translating complex risk, control, and business needs into scalable solutions and driving alignment across technical and business partners
• Build and sustain a high-performing technical organization, developing talent and future leaders while leading workforce and capacity planning, succession, and capability development across data engineering, AI, automation, analytics, and GRC platforms

Operating at the intersection of financial services and technology, Principal builds financial tools that help our customers live better lives. We take pride in being a purpose-led firm, motivated by our mission to make financial security accessible to all. Our mission, integrity, and customer focus have made us a trusted leader for more than 140 years. Who You Are, This role offers in-office, hybrid (blending at least three office days in a typical workweek), and remote work arrangements (only if residing more than 30 miles from Des Moines, IA, Charlotte, NC, and Raleigh, NC). You’ll work with your leader to figure out which option may align best based on several factors.

• Bachelor’s degree (preference in computer sciences, information systems, business administration) or equivalent experience
• 10+ years of relevant experience leading data engineering, analytics engineering, software engineering, automation, or related technical capabilities in a complex enterprise environment, including leadership of technical teams and large-scale, cross-functional initiatives
• Formal people leadership experience, with a track record of coaching and developing talent and building a culture of accountability and collaboration
• Strong knowledge of modern data and software engineering practices, including data architecture, integrations, APIs, cloud data platforms, data governance, analytics, SQL, and Python
• Experience translating cybersecurity, risk, compliance, controls, or complex business requirements into scalable technology solutions, including AI-enabled solutions and automation
• Demonstrated success leading technology modernization while maintaining critical operational services
• Strong strategic planning and executive communication skills, with the ability to develop technical talent and influence across business and technology teams

Skills That Will Help You Stand Out

• 6+ years of formal people leadership, including leading modernization or product-oriented engineering teams
• Experience in cybersecurity, GRC, technology risk, controls, audit, or assurance, ideally within financial services, insurance, or another highly regulated environment
• Experience with enterprise technologies such as Snowflake, Microsoft Fabric/Azure, Power BI, ServiceNow IRM, Power Platform, or similar platforms
• Experience applying generative or agentic AI, machine learning, intelligent automation, Continuous Controls Monitoring, or automated controls and assurance capabilities
• Familiarity with cybersecurity and controls frameworks such as NIST, ISO 27001, COBIT, CIS Controls, or SOX, including experience supporting executive, Board, audit, regulatory, or cybersecurity risk reporting

Salary Range Information: Salary ranges below reflect targeted base salaries. Non-sales positions have the opportunity to participate in a bonus program. Sales positions are eligible for sales incentives, and in some instances a bonus plan, whereby total compensation may far exceed base salary depending on individual performance. Actual compensation for all roles will be based upon geographic location, work experience, education, licensure requirements and/or skill level and will be finalized at the time of offer. Salary Range: $160000 - $210000 / year Time Off Program: Flexible Time Off (FTO) is provided to salaried (exempt) employees and provides the opportunity to take time away from the office with pay for vacation, personal or short-term illness. Employees don’t accrue a bank of time off under FTO and there is no set number of days provided. Pension Eligible: Yes Additional Information

At Principal, we value connecting on both a personal and professional level. Together, we’re imagining a more purpose-led future for financial services - and that starts with you. Our success depends on the unique experiences, backgrounds, and talents of our employees. And we support our employees the same way we support our customers: with comprehensive, competitive benefit offerings crafted to protect their physical, financial, and social well-being. Check out our careers site to learn more about our purpose, values and benefits.