Data & AI Engagement Lead

Data & AI Engagement Lead (AIA Engagement Lead)

About the role

As a Data & AI Engagement Lead, you will make an impact by leading strategic Data, Analytics, and AI programs that drive business transformation and measurable outcomes for utility industry clients. You will be a valued member of the AI & Analytics (AIA) team and work collaboratively with client executives, business stakeholders, delivery teams, and technology leaders to oversee enterprise-scale data and AI initiatives while ensuring delivery excellence, innovation, and long-term value creation.

In this role, you will:

• Serve as the primary client-facing leader for a portfolio of Data, Analytics, Business Intelligence, AI/ML, Data Engineering, and Cloud Data Platform initiatives.
• Lead delivery governance, portfolio planning, risk management, stakeholder engagement, and executive communications to ensure successful program outcomes.
• Drive strategic transformation initiatives focused on data modernization, analytics, AI innovation, automation, and cloud adoption.
• Provide leadership across global onsite and offshore teams, fostering collaboration, talent development, operational excellence, and continuous improvement.
• Partner with client executives and business leaders to align technology investments with business objectives and identify opportunities for growth and innovation.

Work model

At Cognizant, we strive to provide flexibility wherever possible and support a healthy work-life balance through our wellbeing programs. Based on this role's business requirements, this is an onsite position in Houston, Texas.

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.

What you need to have to be considered

• 15+ years of experience leading Data, Analytics, Business Intelligence, Data Engineering, AI, or Digital Transformation programs.
• 8+ years of leadership experience managing large-scale enterprise programs, managed services engagements, or global delivery organizations.
• Strong utility industry experience is required, preferably supporting regulated utility organizations and enterprise data transformation initiatives.
• Demonstrated expertise in Business Intelligence and Analytics solutions, including Tableau, Power BI, data warehousing, and enterprise reporting ecosystems.
• Proven ability to manage executive stakeholders, governance forums, strategic planning processes, and business-critical delivery programs.
• Experience leading global onsite-offshore delivery teams and managing complex, multi-workstream portfolios.
• Strong understanding of Agile, Scrum, Kanban, and managed services delivery models.
• Excellent communication, relationship management, negotiation, and executive presentation skills.

These will help you stand out

• Experience leading large-scale Data & AI transformation programs within regulated utility environments.
• Knowledge of Google Cloud Platform (GCP), BigQuery, Vertex AI, and cloud-native analytics solutions.
• Experience with enterprise data governance, data marketplaces, semantic layer architectures, and self-service analytics programs.
• Familiarity with AI/ML, Generative AI, automation, and advanced analytics initiatives.
• Professional certifications such as PMP, PgMP, SAFe, or other program and portfolio management credentials.
• Track record of expanding client relationships, driving strategic growth, and delivering measurable business value.

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.