AI & Analytics Solutions Sales - Associate Director – Banking & Financial Services

About The Role The AI & Analytics Sales Specialist (Service Line Sales specialist) role drives enterprise AI and data transformation by partnering with internal teams and client stakeholders to identify, shape, and close initiatives across AI/ML, data modernization, and analytics. The role requires strong executive communication, ownership of pursuits (including RFP/RFI), and the ability to engage CXO stakeholders while leading cross-functional teams, along with working knowledge of platforms such as Azure OpenAI, AWS SageMaker/Bedrock, Google Vertex AI, Databricks, or Snowflake.

In This Role, You Will

• Advise & Influence: Act as a trusted consultant to C-suite stakeholders, identifying high-impact AI/ML use cases that drive financial inclusion and digital modernization.
• Lead Inclusive Growth: Orchestrate complex sales cycles by building diverse, cross-functional pursuit teams that leverage collective expertise to win large-scale agreements.
• Architect the Future: Translate complex technical footprints into clear transformation roadmaps, ensuring clients leverage hyperscaler platforms (Azure, AWS, GCP) responsibly and effectively.
• Cultivate Partnerships: Build and maintain long-term relationships centered on transparency, serving as the bridge between client needs and Cognizant’s cutting-edge AI labs.
• Drive Measurable Impact: Own your portfolio’s growth by aligning revenue targets with successful client outcomes and the broader mission of the AI&A practice.

Work model For hybrid roles We believe hybrid work is the way forward as we strive to provide flexibility wherever possible. Based on this role’s business requirements, this is a hybrid position requiring a presence in a client or Cognizant office in New York (or across the East Coast region). We prioritize results over “desk time” and are here to support a healthy work-life balance through our various wellbeing programs and flexible scheduling.

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 overall experience in technology services or consulting, with a minimum of 5+ years specifically in Pre-sales for Data and Analytics solutions.
• Deep Industry Expertise: Proven track record working within the North American Banking and Financial Services sector.
• Cloud & Data Proficiency: Strong experience selling data solutions on Azure, AWS, or GCP platforms, with a solid understanding of Snowflake, Databricks, or Informatica.
• Executive Relationship Management: Demonstrated ability to support long-term executive relationships and develop new territories by ensuring customer success and expansion.

These will help you stand out

• Diverse Perspectives: Experience working in global environments or across multiple industries that allow you to bring unique problem-solving lenses to the team.
• AI Frontier Knowledge: Familiarity with emerging trends such as Generative AI, LLMOps, and Responsible AI frameworks.
• Collaborative Leadership: A track record of mentoring junior team members or leading initiatives that improve team culture and inclusion.
• Advanced Education: An MBA or specialized Master’s degree, or equivalent life/work experience that demonstrates a commitment to continuous learning.

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.

Compensation And Benefits The annual base salary for this position is between $150,000 - $165,000, depending on experience and other qualifications of the successful candidate.

This Position Is Also Eligible For

• Cognizant’s discretionary annual incentive program, based on performance and subject to the terms of Cognizant’s applicable plans.
• 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, and Life Insurance
• Paid holidays plus Paid Time Off (…