Associate Director, M&A and Global Tax Planning, Teaneck,NJ-FrankWBurr Blvd, New Jersey, United States

About Cognizant Corporate

Cognizant Corporate is a global community united by a shared purpose: to make a meaningful impact. We are committed to excellence and driven by outcomes that matter. Collaboration is at the heart of how we work, and our forward-thinking mindset fuels continuous learning, innovation, and growth.

At Cognizant, careers transcend titles. We empower our people to think strategically, inspire others, and lead with purpose – always guided by our core values. Join us in shaping the future of business.

About the role

As an Associate Director, Global Tax Planning and M&A Tax, you will drive impactful contributions within the Global Tax Planning team. You will collaborate closely with business units, legal, accounting, corporate development, finance, and other tax professionals while supporting enterprise-wide tax strategy and M&A initiatives.

You will bring strong technical tax expertise and project management capability, with the ability to lead initiatives, evaluate complex tax matters, and contribute to strategic decision-making in a fast-paced and collaborative environment.

In this role, you will:

Lead and support M&A tax due diligence, including review of transaction agreements and tax-related terms
Evaluate tax planning strategies, identify risks and opportunities, and provide recommendations with structured documentation
Provide international, federal, and state tax research along with financial and analytical support
Model tax implications of acquisition structures and support global tax efficiency initiatives
Partner with cross-functional teams to address tax accounting, transfer pricing, and post-acquisition integration activities

Embrace our culture by focusing on outcomes, fostering collaboration, and continuously developing your skills while contributing to high-impact tax strategies.

What you must have to be considered

7+ years of experience in M&A, transactional tax, and international tax planning in a law firm, public accounting, or in-house setting
Strong experience in international tax planning for U.S.-based multinational organizations preferred
CPA or JD required
Strong communication skills with the ability to explain complex tax concepts to non-tax stakeholders
Demonstrated business judgment, attention to detail, and organizational skills

A strong sense of ownership, commitment to meaningful outcomes, and alignment with Cognizant’s values are essential for success in this role.

These will help you succeed

LL.M. or MST in Tax preferred
Experience or interest in using AI tools to support tax planning and decision-making
Strong collaboration and interpersonal skills across cross-functional teams
Ability to operate in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and take initiative

Work model – Remote

We strive to provide flexibility wherever possible. Based on this role’s business requirements, this is a remote position open to qualified applicants in the United States. Regardless of your working arrangement, we are here to support a healthy work-life balance though our various wellbeing programs.

The working arrangements for this role are accurate as of the date of posting. This may change based on the project you’re engaged in, as well as business and client requirements. Rest assured; we will always be clear about role expectations.

We're excited to meet people who share our mission and can make an impact in a variety of ways. Don't hesitate to apply, even if you only meet the minimum requirements listed. Think about your transferable experiences and unique skills that make you stand out as someone who can bring new and exciting things to this role.

Salary and Other Compensation:

Applications will be accepted until July 10, 2026.

The annual salary for this position is between $150,000-$170,000, depending on experience and other qualifications of the successful candidate.

This position is also eligible for Cognizant’s discretionary annual incentive program, based on performance and subject to the terms of Cognizant’s applicable plans.

Benefits: Cognizant offers the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements:

Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance
Paid holidays plus Paid Time Off
401(k) plan and contributions
Long-term/Short-term Disability
Paid Parental Leave
Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Disclaimer: The salary, other compensation, and benefits 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.

Work Authorization

Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship, now or at any time in the future.

About Cognizant:
Cognizant (Nasdaq: CTSH) is an AI Builder and technology services provider, bridging the gap between AI investment and enterprise value by building full-stack AI solutions for our clients. Our deep industry, process and engineering expertise enables us to build an organization’s unique context into technology systems that amplify human potential, drive tangible outcomes and keep global enterprises ahead in a fast-changing world. See how at cognizant.ai or @cognizant.

Additional employment information
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.

Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. 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 characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.