About Cognizant
Cognizant (Nasdaq: CTSH) is a leading global professional services company, helping clients transform their business, operating, and technology models for the digital era. Our industry-based, consultative approach helps clients envision, build, and run more innovative and efficient businesses.
We foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and inclusionempowering our employees to grow and make a meaningful impact.
Role Overview
We are seeking an experienced Enterprise Lead Data Discovery, Protection & Privacy to drive strategic data governance and security initiatives across large-scale banking environments. This role will lead enterprise-wide efforts to identify, classify, and protect sensitive data across both on-premises and cloud platforms (AWS, Google Cloud) .
You will partner closely with application teams, data leadership, and risk stakeholders to operationalize robust data privacy and protection frameworks across structured and unstructured data ecosystems.
Key Responsibilities
Lead the enterprise rollout of data discovery and data protection capabilities across production, hybrid, and multi-cloud environments
Define and implement sensitive data classification standards and enterprise-wide taxonomy frameworks
Partner with application teams, data governance, and privacy leaders to operationalize data protection strategies
Design and implement automated governance workflows , integrating data discovery tools with platforms such as Alation (MDM) and ServiceNow
Drive adoption of data protection and privacy controls across structured and unstructured data platforms
Develop and maintain executive-level dashboards (Tableau) to track KPIs related to privacy, risk, and compliance posture
Ensure alignment with regulatory requirements and enterprise data governance standards
Provide thought leadership and best practices for data privacy, protection, and risk mitigation
Required Qualifications
Bachelors degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or related field (or equivalent experience)
Proven experience leading enterprise-scale data discovery, protection, or privacy initiatives
Strong background in banking or financial services environments
Hands-on experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Google Cloud) and hybrid architectures
Expertise in data classification, governance frameworks, and privacy controls
Experience integrating tools such as Alation, ServiceNow , or similar governance platforms
Proficiency in data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau) for executive reporting
Strong stakeholder management and communication skills
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with structured and unstructured data platforms at scale
Knowledge of regulatory frameworks (e.g., GDPR, CCPA, banking compliance standards)
Certifications in cloud, data governance, or security domains
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a strategic mindset
Work Model
Location: Remote (U.S.-based)
Travel: Limited, based on business needs
Salary & Benefits
Salary Range: $115,000 $125,000 annually (depending on experience, skills, and location)
Bonus/Variable Pay: Eligible for performance-based incentives
Benefits Include:
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) with company match
Paid time off (PTO), holidays, and sick leave
Life and disability insurance
Employee wellness and assistance programs
Learning and development opportunities, certifications, and career growth programs
Why Cognizant
Opportunity to lead high-impact, enterprise data initiatives
Work with global banking clients and cutting-edge cloud technologies
Continuous learning and career advancement opportunities
Inclusive, collaborative, and innovation-driven culture
Equal Opportunity Statement
Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.