About the role:

At Cognizant, we’re not just at the forefront of technological innovation — we’re actively shaping the future of the digital landscape. As a rapidly expanding global leader in IT services, we’re seeking top talent to join our Data & AI practice.

As the Microsoft Data Practice Lead, you will be a pivotal strategic leader driving innovation and shaping the growth in our technology consulting practice. This is a senior executive role that requires a visionary approach to technology consulting, with deep expertise in the Microsoft data & AI ecosystem. You will be responsible for shaping our practice’s direction, building client relationships, and positioning our firm as a market leader in data solutions.

You will also work closely with cross-functional teams to understand complex business needs, design and implement robust data architectures, and leverage cutting-edge Microsoft Azure and Fabric technologies to unlock unprecedented insights. This role offers unparalleled opportunities for career growth, as you’ll be at the forefront of technological advancements, contributing to solutions that have far-reaching impacts across industries.

The Microsoft Data Practice Lead is responsible for:

Providing overall strategic leadership for our Microsoft Data practice, defining technical vision and go-to-market strategies. Developing and executing a comprehensive practice growth strategy, focusing on emerging Microsoft data technologies and industry trends. Leading presales efforts, crafting compelling technical solutions and narratives for complex enterprise data challenges. Defining reference architectures and solution frameworks leveraging the Microsoft data platform. Building and nurturing a high-performance team of data consultants, driving skill development and practice capabilities. Governing solution delivery across projects, ensuring our teams are delivering Microsoft solutions in the most optimal manner. Serving as the primary technical liaison with Microsoft, developing strategic partnership opportunities and co-innovation initiatives. Representing the practice at industry conferences, technical forums, and Microsoft events as a thought leader. Mentoring and coaching senior consultants, helping them develop advanced technical and client engagement skills.

About you:

Technology Consulting at Cognizant involves exciting, fast-paced work at the cutting edge of innovation. You'll interact with a variety of stakeholders, from C-suite executives to technical teams, as you drive transformative change. The ideal candidate will possess a powerful combination of technical expertise, business acumen, and exceptional communication skills. You should be passionate about data and have a proven track record of delivering successful, large-scale data projects that have had significant business impact.

At Cognizant, we value consultants who demonstrate high IQ, thrive on complex problem-solving, and are genuinely committed to client success. You'll need to confidently present to both business and technology leaders, lead diverse, cross-functional teams across the globe, and skillfully negotiate and collaborate to drive outstanding outcomes. Above all, you should have a positive attitude and relish the opportunity to work with consultants from a wide range of backgrounds on fast-paced, high-impact engagements that are reshaping industries.

Base capability requirements:

15+ years of progressive technology consulting experience, with a minimum of 10 years focused on Microsoft data technologies Proven track record of leading large-scale, enterprise-scale data initiatives Strong background in solution architecture, with the ability to design complex, scalable cloud data platforms In-depth knowledge of Microsoft Fabric components and existing Microsoft Cloud data solutions, and a proven ability to leverage them to deliver innovative and impactful data solutions. Exceptional communication and presentation skills, comfortable engaging with C-level executives Proven ability to develop strategic client relationships and drive new business opportunities Proven track record in mentoring and developing high-performing teams of data professionals.

Our Benefits:

Joining Cognizant will give you the opportunity to learn and collaborate with some of the most talented people in the industry, while having your finger on the pulse of emerging industry trends and working on the cutting edge of technology in your field of expertise. You will be part of a global OCM practice with access to Career Path Support to grow your career in Organizational Change and Transformation capability.

We recognize that our people perform at their best when they feel valued as significant contributors and that is why at Cognizant, taking care of our employees is a priority:

You can pursue innovative career tracks and opportunities here You can enhance your professional development through education and dedicated training We’ll give you the skills you need to keep pace with the changing workplace while our compensation, benefits and wellness packages help you stay healthy and plan for the future.

At Cognizant, we engineer modern businesses to improve everyday life because we're dedicated to making a lasting impact. Cognizant (Nasdaq: CTSH) engineers modern businesses. We help our clients modernize technology, reimagine processes and transform experiences so they can stay ahead in our fast-changing world. Together, we're improving everyday life. See how at www.cognizant.com or @cognizant.

The Cognizant community:
We are a high caliber team who appreciate and support one another. Our people uphold an energetic, collaborative and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.

Cognizant is a global community with more than 300,000 associates around the world. We don’t just dream of a better way – we make it happen. We take care of our people, clients, company, communities and climate by doing what’s right. We foster an innovative environment where you can build the career path that’s right for you.

About us:
Cognizant is one of the world's leading professional services companies, transforming clients' business, operating, and technology models for the digital era. Our unique industry-based, consultative approach helps clients envision, build, and run more innovative and efficient businesses. Headquartered in the U.S., Cognizant (a member of the NASDAQ-100 and one of Forbes World’s Best Employers 2024) is consistently listed among the most admired companies in the world. Learn how Cognizant helps clients lead with digital at www.cognizant.com

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion:
Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer that embraces diversity, champions equity and values inclusion. We are dedicated to nurturing a community where everyone feels heard, accepted and welcome. Your application and candidacy will not be considered based on race, color, sex, religion, creed, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state or local laws.

Disclaimer: 
Compensation information is accurate as of the date of this posting. Cognizant reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.

Applicants may be required to attend interviews in person or by video conference. In addition, candidates may be required to present their current state or government issued ID during each interview.