Chris Markgraf
IT Compliance Manager
Professional Overview
Chris Markgraf is an experienced IT Compliance Manager with a proven track record of ensuring organizational adherence to regulatory standards and industry best practices. With over 25 years of experience in the financial services sector, he has developed a keen understanding of information security, risk management, and compliance frameworks.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the IT Compliance Manager at Combined Insurance, Chris is responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring the company's IT compliance program. He works closely with cross-functional teams to identify and mitigate potential compliance risks, ensuring that the organization's technology infrastructure and data management practices align with relevant regulations, such as HIPAA, GLBA, and PCI DSS. Through his proactive approach and data-driven decision-making, Chris has been instrumental in enhancing the company's security posture and maintaining a strong compliance record.
Career Progression
Prior to his current role, Chris held positions as an IT Project Manager at Washington Mutual and a Loan Officer/Systems Coordinator at Bank of Lincolnwood. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a diverse skillset, spanning project management, systems implementation, and financial operations. These experiences have equipped Chris with a comprehensive understanding of the financial services industry, allowing him to strategically navigate complex compliance challenges and drive continuous improvement.
Academic Background
Chris holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where he graduated with honors.
Areas of Expertise
- Information security and risk management
- Regulatory compliance (HIPAA, GLBA, PCI DSS)
- IT project management and systems implementation
- Financial operations and technology integration
- Cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder management
Professional Impact
Throughout his career, Chris has spearheaded several high-impact initiatives that have improved compliance posture and operational efficiency. Notably, he led the implementation of a robust data encryption solution at Combined Insurance, which significantly enhanced the protection of sensitive customer information and earned the company industry recognition for its commitment to data privacy. Additionally, Chris has been an active contributor to industry forums, sharing his expertise and best practices with peers, and has been recognized by his peers for his leadership and innovative approaches to compliance management.
Conclusion
With his extensive experience, industry-specific expertise, and proven track record of success, Chris Markgraf is a valuable asset to any organization seeking to strengthen its IT compliance and risk management practices. His strategic vision, technical proficiency, and collaborative approach make him well-equipped to navigate the evolving compliance landscape and drive sustainable, long-term compliance initiatives.
