Making digital access simpler, smarter and more secure

23 Sep 2026

Discover our University's Identity and Access Management Programme and the work underway to improve how people access digital services across the institution.

Most of us don't think about digital identity until something goes wrong. Yet every day, thousands of colleagues, students, researchers and partners rely on secure access to systems, services and information that enable teaching, learning, research and collaboration across the University. 

Our University’s Identity and Access Management (IdAM) Programme will strengthen the foundations of our digital future by helping ensure people have secure, reliable access to the systems and information they need, when they need them.  

Watch Chief Information Officer Michael Knight share the story of our Identity and Access Management journey in this video.

While much of this work takes place behind the scenes, its impact will be felt across the University. Over time, you can expect simpler access to services, improved security, more efficient management of accounts and permissions, and a more connected digital experience. These improvements will help support teaching, research, collaboration and innovation both now and in the future.  

Supporting Manchester 2035 

IdAM is a key part of the University's wider digital transformation journey. By creating stronger digital foundations, the programme supports the ambitions set out in Manchester 2035, helping enable secure collaboration, world-leading research, excellent student experiences and future innovation. The work is focused on ensuring that the University's digital environment can continue to evolve alongside the needs of our people and our organisation. 

What is changing? 

The programme brings together four major projects that will modernise how digital identities, accounts and access are managed across the University. Together, they will help create a more secure, resilient and efficient approach to managing access to systems and information.  

Hear from our sponsor Michael Knight, Chief Information Security Officer and sponsor of the IdAM Programme said: "Strong identity and access management is fundamental to delivering secure, reliable and user-friendly digital services. The work we're delivering through the IdAM Programme will help create the foundations for a safer, more connected and more innovative digital University. I encourage colleagues to find out more about what we're achieving and how it supports the University's wider ambitions."  

Find out more 

To help colleagues follow progress and learn more about the programme, we've launched a dedicated IdAM SharePoint site containing updates, videos, project information, Q&As and opportunities to provide feedback.