#351 - Jerome Thorstenson on B2B Identity First Security

In this episode of Identity at the Center, hosts Jeff Steadman and Jim McDonald are joined by Jerome Thorstenson, IAM Architect with Salling Group, live from EIC 2025 in Berlin! Jerome shares his insights on B2B identity, the challenges of managing access for a complex supply chain, and the importance of an identity-first approach.

Discover how Salling Group, operating major labels like Target and Starbucks, handles identity for thousands of employees and external partners. Jerome dives into the complexities of balancing security, user experience, and the practicalities of implementing IGA and ABAC.

From navigating the challenges of data quality and high employee turnover to the nuances of transitioning between IGA systems, this episode offers valuable insights for identity practitioners.

Chapter Timestamps:

• 00:00:00 - B2B Identity Challenges
• 00:02:14 - Welcome to Identity at the Center from EIC 2025
• 00:04:14 - Jerome's Journey into Identity
• 00:05:19 - Salling Group Overview
• 00:06:57 - Securing B2B - Jerome's Presentation
• 00:10:54 - Controlling Access in B2B
• 00:11:41 - Identity as a Product
• 00:14:51 - The Role of the IAM Practitioner
• 00:16:31 - ABAC as a Game Changer
• 00:21:00 - Language Considerations in a European Context
• 00:22:33 - Employee Turnover Challenges
• 00:25:07 - IGA Implementation Insights
• 00:29:28 - Identity Fabric Discussion
• 00:31:21 - Jerome's Caribbean Background
• 00:34:06 - Wrap-up and Contact Information

Connect with Jerome: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jetdk/

Connect with us on LinkedIn:

Jim McDonald: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmcdonaldpmp/

Jeff Steadman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffsteadman/

Visit the show on the web at http://idacpodcast.com

Keywords:

IDAC, Identity at the Center, Jeff Steadman, Jim McDonald, EIC 2025, B2B Identity, Identity First Security, IAM, Identity and Access Management, Supply Chain Security, IGA, ABAC, Attribute-Based Access Control, Role-Based Access Control, Identity Fabric, Digital Identity, Cybersecurity, Data Quality, Employee Turnover, Caribbean