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Director - Transformation Head

00065413561

Job Description: Transformation Head

Position: Senior Platform Leader – AI Training Data Services
Location: PAN India

Level : Senior Director/ Director
Experience Level: 20+ years in Data, AI, and Platform Engineering

Role Overview

We are seeking a visionary and technically strong leader to spearhead the design and development of Cognizant’s AI Training Data Service (AITDS) offering. This role requires deep expertise in data engineering, AI/ML lifecycle, and platform architecture, combined with the ability to drive innovation and new thinking in building scalable, domain-rich solutions for enterprise AI.

Key Responsibilities

  • Platform Strategy & Architecture
    • Define and own the architecture for the AITDS platform, ensuring scalability, security, and interoperability across cloud ecosystems (AWS, Azure, GCP).
    • Drive innovation in data preparation, annotation, validation, and continuous learning workflows.
  • Technical Leadership
    • Guide engineering teams on building modular components (data ingestion, profiling, annotation, governance, deployment).
    • Evaluate and integrate emerging technologies for AI data readiness.
  • AI & Data Expertise
    • Design frameworks for high-quality training data generation for AI/ML models.
    • Ensure compliance with data governance, privacy, and ethical AI standards.
  • Product & Partner Strategy
    • Identify new products, tools, and strategic partners to accelerate platform development.
    • Make informed build vs. buy decisions based on technical, financial, and strategic considerations.
  • Collaboration & Thought Leadership
    • Partner with product managers, data scientists, and client teams to align platform capabilities with business needs.
    • Represent Cognizant in industry forums and contribute to thought leadership in AI data services.
  • Delivery & Operational Excellence
    • Establish best practices for platform deployment, monitoring, and continuous improvement.

Required Skills & Experience

  • Data Expertise: Strong background in data engineering, data quality, and governance.
  • AI/ML Knowledge: Hands-on experience with AI/ML lifecycle, model training, and data annotation strategies.
  • Platform Engineering: Proven track record in designing and building large-scale platforms (preferably SaaS or PaaS).
  • Cloud & DevOps: Expertise in AWS, Azure, GCP; containerization (Docker/Kubernetes); CI/CD pipelines.
  • Leadership: Ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive strategic initiatives.
  • Innovation Mindset: Strong ability to conceptualize and implement new ideas for AI data readiness.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with AI data platforms, MLOps, and data labeling tools.
  • Knowledge of domain-specific data challenges (e.g., BFSI, healthcare, telecom).
  • Advanced degree in Computer Science, Data Science, or related field.

About us
Cognizant (Nasdaq: CTSH) is an AI Builder and technology services provider, building the bridge 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, realize tangible returns and keep global enterprises ahead in a fast-changing world. See how at www.cognizant.com 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.

If you have a disability that requires reasonable accommodation to search for a job opening or submit an application, please email [email protected] for roles based in the Americas or [email protected] for roles based in India.

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.

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Financial wellbeing

We regularly review market data to ensure compensation reflects the value you bring. Your benefits extend beyond pay and may include retirement plans, financial education, etc.

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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. 

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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.

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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 a peek at our hiring process. Keep in mind that not every candidate advances through each step and the process may vary by role and location. Learn more in our candidate FAQs.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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
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Cognizant offers me more than a job; it offers a community. We support each other, collaborate across borders and celebrate wins together. If you’re looking for a culture that values flexibility, diversity and growth, this is the place to be.
Laura Reynaud Lead Counsel
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When I first joined, I was quiet and hesitant to share my thoughts. The leadership programs and the mentoring I’ve received have helped me find my voice and grow as a leader.
Sujatha Gopalakrishnan Portfolio Delivery Lead
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I’ve had the chance to work on impactful projects and shadow colleagues, all while getting involved in internal initiatives. The world is your oyster at Cognizant—you just need to take advantage of it!
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