Consulting Manager, Payer/Provider Program Manager

About Cognizant Consulting Cognizant Consulting is more than Cognizant's consulting practice—we're a global community of 6,000+ experts dedicated to helping clients reimagine their business. Blending deep industry expertise with technology-led advisory capabilities, we deliver innovative solutions for Fortune 500 clients. And now, we're looking for our next colleague to help shape the future of consulting. Could it be you?

In this role you will:

The Program Manager Consultant will lead complex, large-scale initiatives within the Health Sciences industry , ensuring successful Program execution across scope, schedule, risk, comms, and budget. This role requires strong leadership, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement skills to drive Programs from initiation through completion. The consultant will collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive desired outcomes, manage risks, and implement process improvements while maintaining compliance with healthcare regulations and organizational standards. The ideal candidate brings a proven track record in program and Program delivery, strong stakeholder engagement skills, and the ability to navigate dynamic, fast-paced environments in both business and IT domains.

Work Model:

We strive to provide flexibility wherever possible. Based on this role's business requirements, this is a remote position. Regardless of your working arrangement, we are here to support a healthy work-life balance though our various wellbeing programs. What you will need to have to be considered:

• Lead and manage end-to-end Program delivery, ensuring adherence to scope, timelines, and budget.
• Develop comprehensive Program charters, schedules, and resource plans aligned with business objectives. Collaborate with cross-functional teams, stakeholders, and clients to ensure alignment and accountability.
• Monitor Program performance using appropriate systems, tools, and techniques
• Identify risks and dependencies; develop proactive mitigation and contingency plans Prepare and present status reports, dashboards, and executive summaries to senior leadership.
• Drive process improvement initiatives leveraging Lean, Agile, or Six Sigma methodologies Facilitate workshops, meetings, and stakeholder communications to maintain transparency and engagement.
• Ensure adherence to regulatory standards (HIPAA, CMS) and organizational Program management frameworks.

These will help you succeed:

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field (Required) Master's degree in Business Administration (MBA), Business Analytics, or a related discipline (Nice to have)
• 7-10 years of proven experience in managing large-scale or enterprise level initiatives.
• Strong knowledge of Program management methodologies (Agile, Waterfall, or Hybrid).
• Proficiency in Program management tools (MS Program, JIRA, or equivalent).
• Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.
• Demonstrated success managing budgets, resources, timelines, and deliverables effectively Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to drive decisions and resolve conflicts
• Strong background in consulting or management advisory roles Experience implementing process optimization and continuous improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma) Experience in healthcare Programs or operations.
• Familiarity with payer healthcare IT platforms.
• Knowledge of regulatory compliance standards (HIPAA, CMS guidelines).
• Professional certifications such as PMP, CAPM, PMI-ACP, or Lean Six Sigma Black Belt.

Work Authorization :

Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without employer sponsorship now or in the future. Compensation (Pay Transparency) Base salary range (good-faith estimate): $81,450 - $129,500 annually. Eligible for Cognizant's discretionary annual incentive program, subject to applicable plan terms. Benefits Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. 401(k) plan with company contributions. Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Employee Assistance Program. 15 Paid holidays plus PTO. Paid parental leave and fertility assistance. Learning and development programs and certifications.