Program Director – Lead Global Delivery & Transformation at Cognizant’s Capability Center
Exciting Career Opportunity: Program Director – Global Capability Center (PPM CoE) at Cognizant
Are you a visionary leader with a passion for managing complex, multi-service programs on a global scale? Cognizant is looking for an experienced and dynamic Program Director to join our Project & Program Management Center of Excellence (PPM CoE). This role offers the chance to lead high-impact programs delivered through Global Capability Centers (GCCs) while ensuring alignment with business goals, client satisfaction, and continuous improvement. If you’re ready to elevate your career and make a meaningful difference, this opportunity is for you.
About Cognizant
Cognizant is a leading global professional services company, redefining business, operational, and technology landscapes to meet the demands of the digital era. With over 300,000 associates worldwide, we are committed to innovation, excellence, and client success. Listed on the NASDAQ-100 and recognized as one of Forbes World’s Best Employers 2024, Cognizant offers a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing environment where talent is nurtured and ambitions are realized.
Role Overview
As a Program Director within the Global Capability Center (GCC) framework, you will be at the forefront of overseeing large-scale, multi-faceted programs that span application development, maintenance, infrastructure, business processes, and digital services. This is a strategic leadership position that combines program governance, stakeholder engagement, team leadership, and business growth responsibilities.
You will be responsible for setting up and running highly complex delivery programs and ensuring they meet both customer expectations and internal benchmarks for excellence. Your contributions will influence both day-to-day operations and long-term client relationships.
Key Responsibilities
1. Program Governance & Stakeholder Management
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Establish comprehensive governance structures for all assigned programs.
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Coordinate stakeholder communication, benefits management, and change control mechanisms.
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Ensure continuous alignment between program outcomes and strategic goals.
2. Global Capability Center Setup & Operations
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Lead the design and transition phases of Global Capability Centers.
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Establish operational protocols that support scalability, flexibility, and continuous improvement.
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Monitor performance and drive value from offshore delivery centers.
3. Program Delivery Planning
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Oversee comprehensive delivery planning by organizing team structures and defining project timelines from initiation to completion.
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Support all phases of delivery, from pursuit and planning to agile sprints and program increments (PIs).
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Ensure effective integration across different service domains.
4. Performance Metrics & Continuous Improvement
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Track key performance indicators (KPIs), including SLA compliance, bid vs. actual metrics, and contractual obligations.
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Provide data-driven insights and recommendations to improve delivery outcomes.
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Implement and uphold industry-standard methodologies to ensure excellence in program and project management practices.
5. Client Relationship Management
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Serve as the primary point of contact for strategic client interactions.
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Collaborate with client stakeholders to identify and capitalize on value-driven opportunities.
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Build and nurture long-term partnerships that drive mutual growth and success.
6. Pursuit and Business Growth Support
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Participate in and, when needed, lead strategic pursuits and proposals.
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Collaborate closely with Commercial and Account Teams to grow account value and customer satisfaction.
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Translate client needs into compelling solutions that align with Cognizant’s service capabilities.
7. Team Leadership and Development
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Lead cross-functional and multicultural teams across global locations.
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Champion diversity, inclusion, and employee well-being.
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Foster an environment that encourages personal and professional development, collaboration, and innovation.
8. Community Contribution & Knowledge Sharing
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Actively contribute to the Program & Project Management CoE by sharing knowledge, frameworks, tools, and best practices.
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Drive standardization and excellence across the organization through mentorship and internal training initiatives.
9. Contract Compliance
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Oversee Master Service Agreements (MSAs) and Statements of Work (SOWs).
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Ensure all delivery is aligned with contractual commitments and regulatory standards.
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Monitor adherence and initiate corrective actions when necessary.
Ideal Candidate Profile
We are looking for a high-impact leader with:
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Proven experience managing large-scale, multi-service programs (preferably across application, infrastructure, and business process domains).
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Expertise in operating Global Capability Centers or offshore delivery centers.
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Deep understanding of Agile and traditional delivery models.
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Strong stakeholder management and communication skills.
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A strategic mindset with the ability to manage execution and drive continuous improvement.
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Demonstrated ability to grow client relationships and identify value creation opportunities.
Why Join Cognizant?
🌍 Global Exposure
With operations in over 65 countries, Cognizant provides the platform to lead cross-border teams and manage international programs that shape the future of industries.
💡 Innovative Work Environment
Be a part of an organization that believes in pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Our agile, forward-thinking teams continually experiment and improve to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving digital world.
🤝 Supportive Culture
Our people-first philosophy prioritizes collaboration, respect, and inclusion. At Cognizant, you are never alone in your journey—support is always within reach.
📈 Career Growth
As a Program Director, you’ll be encouraged to chart your own path through opportunities for advancement, certifications, learning, and cross-functional exposure.
Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion
Cognizant is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We embrace diversity and strive to foster a workplace where every employee feels valued, respected, and included. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or any other legally protected status.
Candidates requiring reasonable accommodation to complete an application or participate in the interview process can reach out via email to CareersNA2@cognizant.com with the necessary details.
Additional Information
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Location: Open to applicants globally with the ability to work with distributed delivery teams.
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Work Authorization: Candidates may be required to provide valid government-issued identification during interviews.
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Compensation Disclaimer: Salary and benefits packages are subject to change based on organizational policy and applicable laws. Final compensation will be discussed during the offer stage.
How to Apply
If you’re ready to take the next step in your career and play a pivotal role in shaping the success of large-scale programs for global clients, apply today through the Cognizant careers portal or reach out to our recruitment team directly.
Visit: www.cognizant.com
Final Thoughts
This Program Director opportunity is more than just a job—it’s a leadership journey that influences outcomes at a global level. If you’re driven by innovation, capable of managing complexity, and passionate about program excellence, Cognizant offers a rewarding path forward.
Come join a company that doesn’t just dream of a better world—we build it, one successful program at a time.