Governance and Assurance Analyst

Job#: 2084407

Job Description:

Position Summary:

The IT&S Third-Party Governance & Assurance Analyst II plays a key role in managing the organization's Vendor Management Office (VMO) and third-party risk management processes. This position ensures that external IT services align with the organization's cybersecurity, compliance, and operational standards. The Analyst collaborates with cross-functional teams-including IT, procurement, legal, compliance, and security-to assess vendor capabilities, negotiate contracts, and mitigate risks. This role also provides mentorship to junior analysts and contributes to the continuous improvement of vendor governance practices.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operate and enhance the Vendor Management Office (VMO) and third-party risk management capabilities.
• Evaluate vendor compliance with IT and cybersecurity standards, including HIPAA and PCI DSS.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure contracts meet technical and security requirements.
• Review and interpret vendor documentation such as SOC 2 reports and data handling agreements.
• Identify and assess vendor risks across financial, reputational, operational, and security domains.
• Support contract negotiations and vendor relationship management in partnership with legal and procurement teams.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior analysts.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of supply chain risk management practices.
• Communicate complex technical and risk-related information clearly and effectively.
• Continuously improve third-party governance processes to support IT and cybersecurity objectives.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Engineering, or equivalent experience.

Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in IT, cybersecurity, vendor management, or third-party risk management.
• Preferred experience in healthcare environments with exposure to HIPAA, PCI DSS, or similar regulations.

Certifications (Preferred):

• ITIL Foundation
• CompTIA Security+
• ISC2 HCISSP
• ISACA COBIT Foundations

Skills & Competencies:

• Intermediate knowledge of cybersecurity laws and healthcare regulations.
• Strong understanding of risk management and vendor evaluation methodologies.
• Proficiency in IT procurement and contract management.
• Ability to assess vendor trustworthiness and interpret audit documentation.
• Effective problem-solving and remediation strategy development.
• Skilled in technical writing and clear communication across various formats.
• Ability to mentor junior staff and promote best practices.
• Critical thinking and information evaluation skills.

EEO Employer

Apex Systems is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate or allow discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, genetic information, registered domestic partner status, marital status, disability, status as a crime victim, protected veteran status, political affiliation, union membership, or any other characteristic protected by law. Apex will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable law. If you have visited our website in search of information on employment opportunities or to apply for a position, and you require an accommodation in using our website for a search or application, please contact our Employee Services Department at or .

Apex Systems is a world-class IT services company that serves thousands of clients across the globe. When you join Apex, you become part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. We offer quality career resources, training, certifications, development opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in many awards, including ClearlyRated's Best of Staffing in Talent Satisfaction in the United States and Great Place to Work in the United Kingdom and Mexico.

Apex Benefits Overview: Apex offers a range of supplemental benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and other insurance plans that offer an optional layer of financial protection. We offer an ESPP (employee stock purchase program) and a 401K program which allows you to contribute typically within 30 days of starting, with a company match after 12 months of tenure. Apex also offers a HSA (Health Savings Account on the HDHP plan), a SupportLinc Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with up to 8 free counseling sessions, a corporate discount savings program and other discounts. In terms of professional development, Apex hosts an on-demand training program, provides access to certification prep and a library of technical and leadership courses/books/seminars once you have 6+ months of tenure, and certification discounts and other perks to associations that include CompTIA and IIBA. Apex has a dedicated customer service team for our Consultants that can address questions around benefits and other resources, as well as a certified Career Coach. You can access a full list of our benefits, programs, support teams and resources within our 'Welcome Packet' as well, which an Apex team member can provide.