The 2023 Best Firms to Work For: Cognizant

Client Industries Served: Health Sciences, BFS, CMT (Comms, Media, Technology), Insurance, Manufacturing, Logistics, Energy, Utilities, Retail, Travel, Hospitality, Consumer Goods and ESG

Consulting Service Lines: Strategy, Operations Management, HR, IT, Financial Consulting, including Technology Modernization, Enterprise Process and Transformation Management

CMAG: How would you say you've managed to stay among the industry's Best Firms to Work For amid these unprecedented times?

Cognizant Consulting has maintained growth and status as a Best Firm despite a global pandemic and economic uncertainty largely due to our consultant's innate ability to lead with empathy and industry expertise. This platform has led to a unique way of consulting, as Cognizant Consulting continues to serve long term clients with multiple engagements, shying away from the one and done model of consulting as we combine business and technology to tackle our clients' modern challenges. Our distinctive brand of consulting uses cutting edge technology such as generative AI, process automation, and cloud capabilities to transform our client businesses and increase our own productivity. This new way of combining technology with holistic consulting empowers Cognizant consultants to build longevity by growing and evolving with a client to build trust and measurable results by delivering practical business solutions.

CMAG: Were there any specific programs or initiatives (internal or external) that contributed to you being a Best Firm to Work For?

As we have evolved our culture and honed our strategy, we have a number of Strategic Growth Initiatives focused on making this a great place to work. One of those was an effort to bring our consultants together while respecting the work-life balance that a hybrid model has to offer. The events and activities in our hub offices in North American and India helped bring our teams together. Another example is our robust "Consulting DNA" training that keeps our consultants' skills relevant. We are currently training everyone on the strategic issues surrounding Generative AI. In addition, we have D&I and development programs, such as "Women in Consulting", which focuses on mentorship and sponsorship for our consultants. Lastly, we have a program for our incoming graduates that provides them with the opportunity to rotate through consulting coupled with a robust training program.

CMAG: What's unique about your firm? What sets it apart?

Cognizant Consulting differentiates itself in the marketplace through its industry-led consultants driving a transformation-first approach to enable the next generation of consumer interactions for our clients. Our consultants have deep industry skills and knowledge, with many working directly in their specific industries for years before joining our consulting organization. We have a unique challenger mindset with a focus on industry led Technology Consulting.

CMAG: What's the top priority over the next 6 to 12 months?

The top priority is to continue to provide our consultants with an excellent place to grow and develop in their careers.

CMAG: When you look at the remainder of this year and 2024, what excites you? What opportunities do you see in your markets?

I am excited about the possibilities in the marketplace as our clients deal with uncertainty and want to take advantage of the great opportunity that Technology provides. I am firm believer that consultants are best positioned when companies are facing significant challenges. That is the marketplace opportunity.

CMAG: What impact do you think being a Best Firm to Work For has on the firm? Employees? Clients?

This demonstrates that Cognizant Consulting continues to emerge as a unique player in the marketplace. Our consultant value proposition of industry-led technology consulting with a challenger mindset pays dividends for our associates and clients.