Project Manager, IT Project Manager, Program ​/ Project Manager

We are seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead cross‑functional teams and drive strategic initiatives from conception through successful completion. This role is critical for ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and meet quality standards while aligning with organizational objectives.

The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, excellent communication abilities, and a proven track record of managing complex projects across multiple departments. You will serve as the primary point of contact for stakeholders and be responsible for coordinating resources, managing timelines, and mitigating risks throughout the project lifecycle.

About Cognizant’s CIS Practice:

Cognizant’s CIS (Cognizant Infrastructure Services) Practice is a global leader in providing IT infrastructure services. We deliver innovative solutions to optimize and transform IT infrastructure, ensuring business agility and operational efficiency. Our services include cloud computing, data center management, network services, and cybersecurity. We focus on understanding client needs and delivering customized solutions to drive business success.

In this role, you will:

• Define project scope, objectives, and deliverables in collaboration with stakeholders
• Develop comprehensive project plans with clear timelines, milestones, and resource requirements
• Conduct feasibility studies and risk assessments for new project initiatives
• Align projects with broader business strategy and organizational goals

• Lead cross‑functional project teams of 5-15 members across various departments
• Coordinate and motivate team members to achieve project objectives
• Facilitate team meetings, resolve conflicts, and maintain productive team dynamics
• Delegate tasks effectively based on team members' skills and availability
• Coach and mentor team members to enhance their professional development

• Monitor expenditures and track costs against approved budgets
• Allocate resources efficiently across multiple concurrent projects
• Negotiate contracts with vendors and external service providers
• Ensure optimal utilization of human and material resources

• Identify potential project risks early and develop mitigation strategies
• Implement contingency plans to minimize impact on project outcomes
• Establish quality standards and testing protocols for deliverables
• Conduct regular project reviews and performance assessments
• Ensure compliance with organizational standards and industry regulations

• Provide regular status updates to executive leadership and key stakeholders
• Facilitate stakeholder meetings and ensure alignment on project priorities
• Communicate project changes, impacts, and recommendations effectively
• Prepare comprehensive project reports and executive dashboards
• Manage client relationships and expectations throughout project duration

• Analyze project performance metrics and identify optimization opportunities
• Implement best practices and standardized processes across project teams
• Maintain detailed project documentation and lessons learned repositories
• Contribute to the development of project management methodologies
• Support organizational change management initiatives

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Management, or related field
• Master's degree or MBA preferred
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification highly preferred
• Additional certifications in Agile, Scrum, or PRINCE2 advantageous

• Minimum 3-5 years of project management experience
• Proficiency in project management software (MS Project, Asana, Jira, etc.)
• Familiarity with data analysis and reporting tools
• Understanding of Agile and Waterfall methodologies
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities
• Adaptability and flexibility in dynamic environments
• Strong negotiation and conflict resolution skills
• Customer service orientation and stakeholder management

Note:

Sponsorship…