The Company
Cognizant (NASDAQ: CTSH) is a leading provider of information technology, consulting, and business process outsourcing services, dedicated to helping the world's leading companies build stronger businesses. Headquartered in Teaneck, New Jersey (U.S.), Cognizant has over 350,000 employees as of January 2026. Cognizant is a member of the NASDAQ-100, the S&P 500, the Forbes Global 1000, and the Fortune 500 and is ranked among the top performing and fastest growing companies in the world.
Cognizant Consulting
At Cognizant, our consultants orchestrate the capabilities to truly change the game across strategy, design, technology and industry/functional knowledge to deliver insight at speed and solutions at scale. Our consulting services elevate the unique abilities and business aspirations of customers and employees and build relationships based on trust and value.
Role Summary
We are seeking a visionary and highly experienced Chief Architect to lead architectural strategy and execution within the Banking and Financial Services domain. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in modern business platform architecture, including enterprise architecture, hybrid cloud strategies, IT4IT platforms, Generative AI, Agentic AI, and emerging technologies. This role is pivotal in driving our clients’ digital transformation journeys and building resilient, future‑ready technology capabilities.
Responsibilities:
Architectural Leadership
- Provide strategic direction and leadership in developing and implementing architectural frameworks and solutions for the Banking and Financial Services domain.
- Demonstrate strong understanding of TOGAF and modern architecture patterns.
Modern Business Platforms
- Design and oversee the implementation of modern, front‑to‑back business and IT platforms that enhance customer engagement, operational efficiency, and business agility.
Cloud Strategy
- Develop and execute cloud strategies that leverage modern technologies and best practices to ensure scalability, security, compliance, and cost efficiency.
IT4IT Platforms
- Implement IT4IT platforms to streamline IT operations, improve engineering and service delivery, and strengthen overall IT governance.
Generative AI and Agentic AI
- Lead the integration of Generative AI and Agentic AI technologies to drive innovation, enhance decision‑making, and improve operational performance.
Technology Roadmap
- Act as a trusted CTO/CIO advisor to define IT strategy and develop a technology roadmap aligned with business goals and future technology trends.
Collaboration
- Partner closely with business leaders, IT teams, and external stakeholders to ensure successful delivery of architectural solutions.
Innovation
- Foster a culture of innovation by staying current with emerging technologies and industry trends.
- Collaborate with delivery and commercial teams to drive customer‑centric innovation that delivers measurable value.
Governance
- Establish and enforce architectural standards, guidelines, and best practices to ensure consistency, quality, and compliance across all initiatives.
Experience Required:
- Minimum of 15 years of experience in IT architecture, including at least 10 years in leadership roles within the Financial Services domain.
- Strong professional network and active presence in industry forums and professional organizations.
- International experience supporting or driving global initiatives is a plus.
Technical Expertise
- Deep understanding of modern business platform architecture, including:
o Omni‑experience and business platforms (e.g., CRM, Finance, Core Banking, Payments, Lending, Cards, Wealth Management)
- Proven experience with major cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.
- Strong knowledge of AI technologies, including machine learning, natural language processing, and AI‑driven automation.
- Expertise in data strategy and platforms.
- Experience with IT4IT platforms, developer productivity tooling, security, and emerging technologies.
Leadership
- Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire cross‑functional teams, manage complex stakeholder environments, and drive organizational change.
- Experience building high‑performing, results‑oriented consulting teams recognized for excellence.
- Embodies Cognizant’s Core Values:
o Start with a point of view
o Seek data, build knowledge
o Always strive, never settle
o Work as one
o Create conditions for everyone to thrive
o Do the right thing, the right way
Communication
- Excellent consultative, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts to non‑technical stakeholders.
Problem‑Solving
- Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with a track record of developing innovative solutions to complex challenges.
Certifications
- Relevant certifications in cloud architecture, AI, or IT governance are advantageous.
