Skip to main content

Chief Architect – Banking & Financial Services, Enterprise Platforms & AI

00069534651

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 globally. Cognizant is a member of the NASDAQ-100, the S&P 500, the Forbes Global 1000, and the Fortune 500, and is recognized among the fastest growing companies worldwide.

Banking & Financial Services Consulting

Cognizant’s Banking & Financial Services (BFS) Consulting practice partners with global banks, financial institutions, fintech organizations, and capital markets firms to drive large-scale business and technology transformation. Our teams help clients modernize business platforms, accelerate cloud adoption, optimize enterprise architecture landscapes, and leverage emerging technologies including Artificial Intelligence, Generative AI, Agentic AI, and intelligent automation.

This role offers an opportunity to shape strategic technology visions for leading financial institutions, helping clients build resilient, scalable, and future-ready digital ecosystems while accelerating innovation and business growth.

About the Role

As a Chief Architect – Banking & Financial Services, Enterprise Platforms & AI, you will provide strategic technology leadership across client engagements, driving enterprise architecture transformation and shaping next-generation business platforms. You will serve as a trusted advisor to CIOs, CTOs, and business executives, establishing architecture vision, technology strategy, and transformation roadmaps that align business objectives with long-term technology investments.

You will lead architecture teams across cloud, data, AI, platform modernization, and digital transformation initiatives while helping clients adopt innovative technologies that improve operational efficiency, customer experience, and competitive advantage.

Key Responsibilities

Enterprise Architecture Leadership

  • Define and drive enterprise architecture strategies that support business transformation within Banking and Financial Services organizations
  • Establish architectural frameworks, governance models, reference architectures, and technology standards aligned with business priorities
  • Provide executive-level architecture leadership across large-scale transformation programs
  • Drive architecture alignment across business, application, data, technology, security, and operational domains
  • Promote modern architecture practices and scalable operating models across complex enterprise environments

Business Platform Transformation

  • Define and oversee architecture strategies for modern business platforms supporting front-to-back banking operations
  • Guide transformation initiatives across domains including Core Banking, Payments, Lending, Cards, Wealth Management, Treasury, Finance, and Customer Engagement platforms
  • Drive platform modernization initiatives that improve agility, operational efficiency, customer experience, and business scalability
  • Identify opportunities to simplify technology landscapes while enabling innovation and growth
  • Establish platform architecture principles that support composable, API-driven, and ecosystem-based business models

Cloud Strategy & Modernization

  • Lead cloud transformation strategies across hybrid, multi-cloud, and cloud-native environments
  • Define cloud architecture blueprints that ensure scalability, security, resilience, compliance, and cost optimization
  • Advise clients on cloud adoption models, migration approaches, platform operating models, and cloud governance frameworks
  • Collaborate with engineering and infrastructure teams to modernize legacy technology estates and accelerate cloud delivery
  • Drive adoption of industry-leading cloud technologies and emerging platform capabilities

Generative AI & Agentic AI Leadership

  • Define enterprise AI strategies that leverage Generative AI, Agentic AI, machine learning, and intelligent automation capabilities
  • Identify opportunities to embed AI-led innovation across customer, operational, risk, compliance, and enterprise functions
  • Establish architectural standards, governance models, and operating frameworks for responsible AI adoption
  • Guide AI platform architecture, model integration, automation ecosystems, and AI-enabled business capabilities
  • Partner with client executives to accelerate AI transformation and create measurable business value

Technology Strategy & Executive Advisory

  • Serve as a trusted advisor to CIOs, CTOs, Chief Architects, and senior business stakeholders
  • Develop strategic technology roadmaps aligned with business objectives and future industry trends
  • Assess emerging technologies and market developments to identify opportunities for innovation and transformation
  • Support executive decision-making through technology assessments, architecture reviews, and strategic recommendations
  • Drive business-technology alignment across enterprise transformation initiatives

Innovation & Industry Leadership

  • Foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement across consulting and delivery teams
  • Promote experimentation and adoption of emerging technologies, platforms, and operating models
  • Collaborate with commercial and delivery teams to develop innovative client solutions and offerings
  • Represent Cognizant in industry forums, conferences, and executive client engagements
  • Contribute to market-facing thought leadership and strategic initiatives

Architecture Governance & Standards

  • Establish enterprise architecture governance frameworks, standards, and best practices
  • Ensure architecture decisions align with regulatory, security, risk, and compliance requirements
  • Drive consistency, quality, and technical excellence across transformation programs
  • Lead architecture review boards and governance forums to ensure strategic alignment and solution integrity
  • Promote architecture disciplines that support long-term business and technology sustainability

Skills & Experience

Domain Expertise

  • Deep expertise within Banking and Financial Services, including Retail Banking, Commercial Banking, Payments, Lending, Wealth Management, Capital Markets, and Digital Banking
  • Strong understanding of enterprise business platforms and end-to-end financial services operating models
  • Experience leading digital transformation, platform modernization, and technology strategy initiatives
  • Knowledge of industry regulations, risk management, governance frameworks, and compliance requirements

Functional Skills

  • Proven experience developing enterprise architecture strategies and transformation roadmaps
  • Strong expertise in business capability modeling, operating model transformation, and enterprise architecture governance
  • Experience advising senior executives on technology investments and transformation priorities
  • Ability to align technology initiatives with measurable business outcomes
  • Exceptional consulting, stakeholder management, and executive communication skills

Technical Skills

  • Deep knowledge of enterprise architecture frameworks including TOGAF and modern architecture methodologies
  • Expertise in hybrid cloud, multi-cloud, and cloud-native architectures across AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform
  • Strong understanding of IT4IT platforms, IT operating models, and engineering excellence frameworks
  • Experience with enterprise business platforms including CRM, Core Banking, Payments, Lending, Cards, Wealth Management, and Finance platforms
  • Knowledge of modern data platforms, analytics ecosystems, digital engineering practices, and API-led architectures
  • Strong understanding of Generative AI, Agentic AI, Machine Learning, Natural Language Processing, AI Governance, and Intelligent Automation
  • Familiarity with developer productivity platforms, cybersecurity architectures, and emerging technologies

Delivery Experience

  • 15+ years of experience in enterprise architecture, technology strategy, or digital transformation leadership roles
  • Minimum 10 years of leadership experience within Banking and Financial Services organizations
  • Proven track record leading large-scale transformation initiatives across global enterprises
  • Experience building and leading high-performing architecture, consulting, and technology organizations
  • Experience managing complex stakeholder environments across business, technology, and regulatory functions
  • International experience supporting global transformation initiatives is highly desirable

Personal Attributes

  • Inspirational leader with the ability to influence and align executive stakeholders across large organizations
  • Strategic thinker with strong business acumen and future-focused perspective
  • Strong communicator capable of translating complex technical concepts into executive-level discussions
  • Analytical and solution-oriented with exceptional problem-solving capabilities
  • Collaborative and relationship-driven with a strong focus on client success
  • Passionate about innovation, technology disruption, and continuous learning
  • Demonstrates Cognizant’s core values of client-centricity, collaboration, excellence, integrity, and innovation

Contribution to Development of Practice

  • Contribute to the growth and evolution of Cognizant’s Banking & Financial Services Consulting practice
  • Develop reusable architecture frameworks, transformation methodologies, and industry accelerators
  • Drive thought leadership through white papers, industry forums, executive briefings, and market insights
  • Mentor senior architects, consultants, and technology leaders across the organization
  • Support business development activities, proposal creation, and strategic account growth initiatives
  • Strengthen Cognizant’s market position as a trusted transformation partner for financial institutions

Industry Experience

  • 15+ years of experience in Enterprise Architecture, Technology Strategy, Digital Transformation, or Chief Architect roles
  • 10+ years of leadership experience within Banking and Financial Services organizations
  • Proven experience advising CIOs, CTOs, and executive leadership teams on enterprise transformation initiatives
  • Demonstrated success delivering large-scale modernization programs involving cloud, AI, data, and business platform transformation
  • Active participation in industry forums, professional organizations, and technology communities is highly desirable
  • Experience working across global, multi-regional financial institutions preferred

Certifications (Preferred)

  • TOGAF Certification or equivalent Enterprise Architecture certification
  • AWS, Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud Professional Architect certifications
  • AI and Machine Learning certifications from recognized providers
  • ITIL, IT4IT, or related IT governance certifications
  • Relevant Banking, Cloud, Security, or Digital Transformation certifications

Location

United Kingdom / Europe (Hybrid)

Travel: Willingness to travel as required to support client engagements and executive stakeholder interactions.

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.

Language requirements vary depending on roles, but we ask that all candidates have basic English proficiency for company-wide communications purposes. For roles based in Quebec, professional English proficiency is required, as you’ll deliver services to and collaborate with stakeholders outside the province who may not speak French.

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, provincial or local laws.

If you have a disability that requires reasonable accommodation to search for a job opening or submit an application, please email [email protected] with your request and contact information.

Benefits that help you thrive and grow

Our benefits program is built with you in mind—so you can enjoy a fulfilling, balanced and healthy life.

a blue line drawing of a plant with leaves

Financial wellbeing

We regularly review market data to ensure compensation reflects the value you bring. Your benefits extend beyond pay and may include financial education, a pension plan with matching contributions, etc.

Stay Healthy Midnight Blue RGB

Physical and mental health

We empower you to prioritize your wellbeing through paid time off, flexible working where possible, healthcare plans, counselling, our Mental Health Allyship program and more. 

Build The Career You Want Midnight Blue RGB

Your career, your way

With 350,000+ roles at Cognizant, you’ll have opportunities explore new technologies, industries and locations—and build the skills you need to grow your career.

Making A Meaningful Impact Midnight Blue RGB

Real-world impact

Think about the biggest brands you rely on. Chances are, they rely on us to help strengthen their business. Here, you’ll turn bold ideas into solutions that improve lives everywhere.

Your path to Cognizant

Here’s what you can expect from our hiring process. Please keep in mind that it may vary by role and location. Explore our FAQs to learn more.

a person sitting at a table using a laptop

Step 1: Apply to the right opportunity

Find an open role that matches your skills and career goals and show us why you’re the person for the job. Don’t see the right opportunity? Consider joining our Talent Community.

a person holding a tablet and talking on the phone

Step 2: Connect with your recruiter

If one of our recruiters sees a fit, they’ll set up a short intro call to learn more about you and how your experiences and skills match the role.

a person smiling at a table with a laptop

Step 3: Show off your skills

If you and our team would like to continue the process, you’ll interview with our hiring team. Some roles may also require technical assessments and/or client interviews.

a group of people sitting around a table

Step 4: Decision time

Our team will then review each candidates’ potential to succeed in the role. This step may take some time because we want to find the right fit for both you and us—but you can count on us to keep you updated.

CAN Brigitte
Cognizant is great for those wanting to make the world a better place, as we create solutions with top technology partners to address complex problems for our clients.
Brigitte Roy Director of Strategy Alliances
CAN Rahul
I’m supported by motivational leaders who empower me to grow in my career through learning programs, industry conferences and internal job moves. I’m proud of the career progression I’m making here.
Rahul Sathe Principal Product Architect – Insurance
Can Amita
The moment I joined Cognizant, I felt like I belonged. I was heard and empowered to challenge ideas—and I still am to this day.
Dr. Amita Oppal Gill Service Line Sales Manager
1 (2)
Cognizant has one of the best learning ecosystems you can ask for. From sponsored certifications to training platforms to mentorship, we have all that we need to grow.
Debashish Mishra SAP MM Developer

Haven't yet found the right opportunity?

Get the latest updates on job opportunities, recruitment events and company news—tailored just for you!

Be in the know