Microsoft SSE Program Lead - Security Service Edge

Our client is seeking a Senior Microsoft SSE Program Lead for a 6-month remote contract to lead the architectural design, roadmap, and deployment of Microsoft Security Service Edge (Entra Internet & Private Access). Ideal candidates bring 7+ years in enterprise cloud security/IAM, strong Microsoft ecosystem expertise, and experience driving Zero Trust transformations across cross-functional teams and external partners.

Advantages Competitive Compensation: $85 to $95 per hour (35-hour workweek). Flexible Work Model: 100% remote opportunity across Canada (excluding Quebec). High Impact: Lead a flagship enterprise security transformation and Zero Trust initiative. Extension Potential: Initial 6-month contract with a strong likelihood of extension. Responsibilities Program Leadership: Drive the enterprise Security Service Edge (SSE) initiative end-to-end, maintaining the roadmap, project timelines, risk management, governance, and executive communications.

Solution Architecture & Design: Design target-state architecture for Microsoft Entra Internet Access, Microsoft Entra Private Access, and Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) to replace/modernize legacy VPN systems. Security & Zero Trust Enablement: Partner with Security teams to establish identity-first access policies, device trust controls, secure web traffic routing, and user risk frameworks aligned with compliance standards.

Vendor & Stakeholder Management: Serve as the primary technical lead and bridge between internal engineering teams, leadership, external implementation partners, and Microsoft resources. Project Delivery & Change Management: Oversee project plans, pilot deployments, UAT, user rollouts, operational readiness reviews, and knowledge transfer to internal support teams. Qualifications Experience: 7+ years in enterprise infrastructure, cloud security, networking, or identity & access management (IAM), with a proven track record of leading complex security transformations.

Technical Mastery: In-depth expertise in Microsoft Entra ID, Conditional Access, Intune, Defender, Zero Trust frameworks, and core enterprise networking. Partner Coordination: Demonstrated experience collaborating with third-party implementation partners, MSPs, and Microsoft engineering teams. Preferred Experience: Hands-on exposure to Microsoft SSE (Global Secure Access, Entra Internet Access, Entra Private Access), SASE, or legacy VPN migration strategies.

Certifications: Microsoft Security, Identity, or Cloud certifications (e.g., SC-100, SC-300, AZ-500) are highly desirable. Industry Background: Previous experience in regulated sectors (such as financial services or insurance) is a strong asset. Summary Our client, a leading national enterprise, is seeking a high-caliber Contract Microsoft SSE Program Lead to direct the strategic planning, architectural design, and deployment of Microsoft’s Security Service Edge platform.

Functioning as the core technical and strategic authority, you will partner across Infrastructure, Security, Network, and Cloud teams to modernize secure remote access and advance the organization's Zero Trust posture. This role is ideal for a senior security architect or program lead who balances high-level strategic alignment and vendor management with deep technical knowledge of the Microsoft security ecosystem.

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