Life Science Program Delivery/Chief Architect

Role Overview

Cognizant is seeking a seasoned Life Sciences Engagement Lead / Program Director to lead client stakeholder management and end-to-end delivery of critical AI & Analytics (AIA)–led programs supporting our strategic partnership with a Client in Chicago.

This role blends hands-on program leadership, client relationship management, and delivery-led growth within a complex life sciences environment.

Responsibilities

• Delivery Management & Governance
  • Lead onsite execution of digital transformation and niche AIA engagements across AbbVie portfolios
  • Establish and maintain robust delivery governance in partnership with EDPs, EPLs, and AIA delivery teams
  • Review delivery performance, operational metrics, risks, and mitigation plans
  • Oversee Statements of Work (SoWs) and work orders, ensuring scope, quality, and financial adherence
  • Monitor and report delivery commitments, financial performance, and operating margins to Cognizant leadership
  • Lead monthly and quarterly governance reviews with AbbVie IT stakeholders and internal leadership
  • Mentor and coach Program Leads and onsite teams to drive high performance and accountability
  • Deliver best-in-class outcomes resulting in high client satisfaction (CSAT / NPS)
• Innovation, Process Improvement & Thought Leadership
  • Identify and drive transformational opportunities across client programs
  • Audit, design, and deploy innovations leveraging Cognizant accelerators and AI-led solutions
  • Discover, propose, and implement continuous improvement ideas (including Bluebolts initiatives)
  • Drive AI-led business and technical use cases aligned to AbbVie priorities
  • Provide thought leadership and engage Cognizant practice and offering SMEs as needed
• Revenue Acceleration & Margin Management
  • Act as a catalyst for delivery-led growth within the AbbVie account
  • Partner with MCU, MDU, Sales, and Engagement Leads to identify and realize organic growth opportunities
  • Support account expansion while maintaining delivery quality and margin targets
• Account Delivery Operations
  • Ensure timely fulfillment of onsite and offshore resource needs
  • Drive improved utilization and billability across delivery teams
  • Partner with Talent Acquisition Group (TAG) and external vendors for talent sourcing, including contingent workforce intake

Qualifications

• Extensive experience leading complex programs for life sciences / pharmaceutical clients
• Strong background in commercial and/or R&D functional domains within pharma
• Prioritizing client-facing delivery leadership roles with onsite presence
• Managing large, multi-workstream engagements with financial accountability
• Demonstrated ability to lead senior client stakeholders and executive governance forums
• Strong understanding of digital transformation, analytics, and AI-enabled delivery

Preferred

• Prior experience supporting AbbVie or similar large pharma enterprises
• Familiarity with Cognizant AIA offerings, accelerators, or AI-led delivery models
• Experience driving innovation programs and continuous improvement initiatives

Salary And Other Compensation

The annual base salary for this position is between $185,000 - $210,000 depending on the experience and other qualifications of the successful candidate. This position is also eligible for Cognizant’s discretionary annual incentive program and stock awards, 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. Benefits Cognizant Offers a Competitive Benefits Package That Includes: Medical, dental, and vision insurance, Paid time off and holidays, 401(k) plan with employer contributions, Life insurance, disability coverage, and wellness programs, Learning and development opportunities, Employee assistance programs.

About Cognizant

Cognizant (NASDAQ: CTSH) engineers modern businesses. We help our clients modernize technology, reimagine processes, and transform experiences so they can stay ahead in a fast-changing world.