A source of inspiration: My dad’s career at Cognizant

Growing up, I always looked up to my dad, Hari—not just as a parent, but as a mentor and source of inspiration.  

His career at Cognizant has been remarkable, and after seeing stories of other tenured associates on Instagram, I knew it was worth making his incredible journey known. I’m honored to share his story with you and give him a small surprise (hi, Dad!). 

How it all started 

My dad’s journey with Cognizant began in Mumbai where he was one of only four candidates selected from more than 500. He joined in 2000 and received support from his colleagues and leaders on his first project who helped him settle into his new role.

The following year, he traveled to the U.S. for a new project with a customer who would later become one of Cognizant’s largest clients. During his allocation on this project, I was born in South Carolina. Shortly after, he decided to return to India to Coimbatore so we could be nearer to family, and both Cognizant and the customer fully supported his decision. Some of my earliest and fondest memories are from this time, like climbing on my dad’s shoulders, playing with him at home and exploring different parts of India.

Growing his career

For the next decade, Coimbatore became my dad’s professional home.  

He was fortunate to be part of the team that established the Coimbatore center where he learned new ways of IT operations and contributed to making them more intuitive. He transitioned from the Insurance to the Manufacturing practice in 2007, guided by supportive leaders who trusted him to meet with senior leaders and challenged him with high-visibility projects.  

Building community at work 

My father always appreciated the learning opportunities and supportive environment Cognizant provided him—something that is still very much part of the company’s DNA today.

When I was seven, I remember tagging along with my dad to a work event. It was the first time I saw the camaraderie and strong bonds he formed with his colleagues. It was clear that his 9-5 was more than a job—it was an opportunity to build community. 

After he got married in 2003, his client team celebrated by watching his wedding video together. When thinking about other times he felt most supported, he often shares this story: “I can never forget how my Client Director took care of me when my mom passed away; she told me to consider her as my mom. I’ve been blessed to have such wonderful clients and team members.” 

My dad, my inspiration 

We moved back to the U.S. when I was in middle school and settled in Illinois, where my family currently resides as I study computer science in Wisconsin (following my father’s footsteps, of course!).  

After 25 years and countless projects, my dad’s still as passionate about his work as ever.

He reminds our family during our daily FaceTime calls that success is not just built on hard work but also on resilience, adaptability and a strong community. He’s guided by his purpose and strong values. And thus I am by him.  

Thank you, Appa! (dad in Tamil)