Service Line sales Specialist - (AI & Process Automation ) - Associate Director - San Francisco - 71295022

About the role

As an IPA Service Line Specialist, you will make an impact by growing Cognizant's Intelligent Process Automation (IPA) presence across select high-growth focus accounts in North America, driving sales of automation, analytics and consulting services for mission-critical business processes. You will be a valued member of the Intelligent Process Automation (IPA) team and work collaboratively with consulting, advisory, technology CoE and solution delivery teams.

In this role, you will

• Prepare and execute an IPA sales (hunting and farming) strategy for assigned accounts, partnering with Digital Operations and industry vertical sales teams, and own revenue, margin, pipeline, TCV and customer satisfaction.

• Own activities across the full sales cycle: build a qualified pipeline, shape differentiated solutions aligned to client needs, develop win-win commercial models and drive opportunities to closure.

• Use deep industry knowledge to identify high-value Agentic AI, automation, analytics and process transformation opportunities relevant to the client business.

• Engage credibly with business and IT stakeholders by connecting solutions to sector-specific priorities, processes, operating models and value drivers, and build and manage senior and mid-level customer relationships.

• Collaborate with teams across Cognizant to create targeted pitches and solution offerings, respond to RFIs and RFPs, and engage strategic product partners on joint marketing, sales, events, pipeline planning and joint pursuits.

Work model

At Cognizant, we strive to provide flexibility wherever possible. Based on this role's business requirements, this is a hybrid position requiring 3 days a week in a client or Cognizant office in in San Francisco, California. Regardless of your working arrangement, we are here to support a healthy work-life balance through our various wellbeing programs.

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

• 12–15 years of experience in IT services, consulting, or sales, with strong domain experience in at least one of the following industries: Retail, Consumer Goods, Travel & Hospitality, Manufacturing, or Energy & Utilities

• Strong experience selling Agentic AI, Automation, Process Consulting, and Data & Analytics transformation solutions.

• Demonstrated understanding of the selected industry or industries, including key business processes, operating challenges, transformation priorities, value levers and relevant executive stakeholders.

• Ability to translate industry challenges into automation, AI, analytics and process transformation opportunities and articulate a business-value-led proposition, with strong domain experience in business processes such as F&A, Revenue Operations and HR.

• Exceptional client management skills, strong business acumen and proven leadership of highly diverse teams, with excellent oral and written communication skills.

These will help you stand out

• Experience supporting account teams and building collaborative relationships with external and internal partners.

• A dynamic entrepreneurial spirit paired with a hands-on, collaborative approach and a strong drive for results.

• A willingness to roll up your sleeves and get the job done.

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.

Salary and Other Compensation

Applications will be accepted until December 14, 2026.

• The annual salary for this position is between $155,000 - $170,000 depending on the 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.

Benefits

• Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance

• Paid holidays plus Paid Time Off

• 401(k) plan and contributions

• Long-term/Short-term Disability

• Paid Parental Leave

• Employee Stock Purchase Plan

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.