EY builds out IAM implementation with Open Windows Identity buy

EY has snapped up Melbourne-based identity and access management company Open Windows Identity as it builds out its IAM implementation and managed services capability.

EY says the move enables it to offer an integrated suite of cyber advisory services across Asia Pacific, from strategy to the implementation expertise that Open Windows brings.

The new platform will provide identity-as-a-service in addition to EY's existing identity governance capability.

Open Windows Identity was established in 2012 and says it is one of the largest implementation partners of identity and access management solutions in Australia, with a 'significant' client base of top tier organisations.

Open Windows Identity will become part of EY's new Asia Pacific Identity Management Centre of Excellence, which will be lead by Open Windows Identity chief executive Simon Adler.

The deal will see the addition of more than 45 IAM professionals to EY's team.

Lynn Kraus, EY Oceania managing partner advisory, says the acquisition gives EY the foundation for creating a hub for its identity management capability across Asia Pacific.

"We will be investing in people and assets to build on this regional capability," Kraus says.

Richard Watson, EY lead partner cyber APAC, says maintaining the Open Window platform as a discrete platform within EY will help drive innovation, delivery quality and client service in IAM.

"This central IAM platform complements our offshore capability and we see it as a key point of differentiation from competitors who in the main offer offshore identity work only, without the implementation advisory," Watson says.

He says the need to protect infrastructure such as financial systems, power grids, telecommunication lines, transportation, commerce and healthcare systems from cyber-threats has never been more important.

"Connected infrastructure, growing networks and internet enabled devices mean our communities are increasingly vulnerable to risk of attack from sophisticated cyber criminals who often use weak identity management controls to compromise systems.

"With an end-to-end advisory and implementation capability, EY is now better placed than ever to help clients protect critical systems," he says.

The acquisition does not affect Open Windows Identity's sister company Open Windows Software, which will continue to operate under the Open Windows brand as a provider of eSourcing and contract management software.