Principal Security Program Manager-Remote or Hybrid from MN or DC

Requisition Number: 2338505
Optum is a global organization that delivers care, aided by technology to help millions of people live healthier lives. The work you do with our team will directly improve health outcomes by connecting people with the care, pharmacy benefits, data and resources they need to feel their best. Here, you will find a culture guided by diversity and inclusion, talented peers, comprehensive benefits and career development opportunities. Come make an impact on the communities we serve as you help us advance health equity on a global scale. Join us to start Caring. Connecting. Growing together.
The Enterprise Information Security (EIS) team is responsible for cybersecurity across our organization. We support our business and members by reducing risk, rapidly responding to threats, focusing on business resiliency and securing new acquisitions.
We're seeking a seasoned Program Manager (GL29) to lead complex, multi workstream security programs that span enterprise functions and deliver measurable risk reduction. This role goes beyond project execution-you'll own program strategy, governance, and delivery, ensuring alignment with ESRO priorities and enterprise objectives.
You'll manage multiple projects under a program umbrella as well be responsible for partnership on the overall success of the program's strategic objectives, drive cross functional collaboration, and serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership. Expect to influence decisions, resolve ambiguity, and lead teams through transformation.
If you are located in MN or DC, you will have the flexibility to work remotely*, as well as work in the office as you take on some tough challenges. This position follows a hybrid schedule with four in-office days per week.
Primary Responsibilities:

• Program Leadership & Governance
  • Define program vision, objectives, and success metrics; ensure alignment with ESRO strategic themes and enterprise OKRs
  • Establish governance structures, operating rhythms, and decision frameworks for multi workstream programs
• Delivery Oversight
  • Oversee integrated plans across projects, managing interdependencies, risks, and resource allocation
  • Ensure consistent use of PMO standards (charters, RAID logs, comms plans, compliance packs)
• Financial & Resource Management
  • Develop and maintain program budgets and forecasts; secure approvals through Financial Control Towers
  • Partner with workforce and vendor management teams to optimize resource mix and cost efficiency
• Stakeholder Engagement
  • Act as primary liaison for senior leaders; prepare executive updates, dashboards, and decision briefs
  • Drive alignment across ESRO, Optum Tech, and business units on priorities and trade offs
• Risk & Compliance
  • Embed GRC requirements into program plans; ensure audit readiness and evidence capture
  • Proactively identify and mitigate risks impacting delivery or security posture
• Continuous Improvement
  • Capture lessons learned; contribute to PMO playbooks and process enhancements

You'll be rewarded and recognized for your performance in an environment that will challenge you and give you clear direction on what it takes to succeed in your role as well as provide development for other roles you may be interested in.
Required Qualifications:

• Undergraduate degree or 8+ years equivalent experience
• 8+ years of managing large, complex programs in technology or cybersecurity domains
• 5+ years of experience leading through ambiguity and influence senior stakeholders
• Expertise in program governance, financial management, and multi project integration
• Proven solid command of delivery methodologies (Agile, Hybrid, Waterfall) and tailoring approaches
• Proven solid executive reporting, cross-functional leadership, and ability to handle complex, multi workstream environments

Preferred Qualifications:

• PMP, PgMP, or PMI ACP certification
• Cybersecurity experience (IAM, GRC, Security Architecture, Data Security, Cloud)
• Familiarity with NIST CSF and enterprise control frameworks

*All employees working remotely will be required to adhere to UnitedHealth Group's Telecommuter Policy
Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to local labor markets, education, work experience, certifications, etc. In addition to your salary, we offer benefits such as, a comprehensive benefits package, incentive and recognition programs, equity stock purchase and 401k contribution (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements). No matter where or when you begin a career with us, you'll find a far-reaching choice of benefits and incentives. The salary for this role will range from $112,700 to $193,200 annually based on full-time employment. We comply with all minimum wage laws as applicable.
At UnitedHealth Group, our mission is to help people live healthier lives and make the health system work better for everyone. We believe everyone-of every race, gender, sexuality, age, location and income-deserves the opportunity to live their healthiest life. Today, however, there are still far too many barriers to good health which are disproportionately experienced by people of color, historically marginalized groups and those with lower incomes. We are committed to mitigating our impact on the environment and enabling and delivering equitable care that addresses health disparities and improves health outcomes - an enterprise priority reflected in our mission.
UnitedHealth Group is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer under applicable law and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations.
UnitedHealth Group is a drug - free workplace. Candidates are required to pass a drug test before beginning employment.