Demo

Program Delivery Director - Life Sciences

Cognizant
Illinois, IL Full Time
POSTED ON 6/27/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 7/27/2026
Life Sciences Program Delivery Director

Location: Chicago, IL (must live or be willing to relocate to Chicago, IL)

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced Program Director with 16 to 20 years of expertise to lead and manage complex projects within our Research and Development domain in Life Sciences. The ideal candidate will possess strong skills in Project Scope Management Risk Management and Data Governance. This hybrid role requires a methodical thinker who can drive successful project outcomes and enhance our company’s impact on society.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the planning and execution of multiple projects within the Research and Development domain ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
  • Oversee project scope management to ensure deliverables meet stakeholder expectations and project objectives.
  • Implement risk management strategies to identify, assess and mitigate potential project risks.
  • Facilitate requirements management processes to capture and document project needs accurately.
  • Conduct functional analysis to ensure project solutions align with business requirements.
  • Manage data governance processes to maintain data integrity and compliance with industry standards.
  • Drive program execution by coordinating cross-functional teams and resources effectively.
  • Develop and implement program governance and communication strategies to ensure transparency and stakeholder engagement.
  • Oversee program resource management to optimize team performance and project outcomes.
  • Utilize Psft-Program Management skills to streamline project workflows and enhance efficiency.
  • Lead change lifecycle management initiatives to support organizational transformation and adaptation.
  • Develop change communication strategies to ensure clear and consistent messaging across the organization.
  • Utilize data and analytics to drive informed decision-making and project success.
  • Ensure delivery management processes are efficient and aligned with project timelines and quality standards.

Qualifications

  • Possess a deep understanding of project scope management and its impact on project success.
  • 10 years of experience delivering GxP compliant products and projects within the Clinical domain ensuring compliance with the Good Practices (GxP) standards in the life sciences industry.
  • Clinical Operations and Data Management process experience.
  • Demonstrate expertise in risk management and the ability to develop effective mitigation strategies.
  • Have a strong background in requirements management and functional analysis.
  • Exhibit proficiency in data management and governance within a research and development context.
  • Show experience in program execution governance and communication.
  • Be skilled in resource management and optimizing team performance.
  • Have a proven record in change lifecycle management and communication.
  • Demonstrate the ability to leverage data and analytics for strategic decision-making.
  • Possess excellent delivery management skills to ensure project success.
  • Have a strong understanding of the research and development domain.
  • Be able to work effectively in a hybrid work model.
  • Exhibit effective communication and leadership skills to drive project success.
  • Have a strategic mindset with a focus on achieving organizational goals.

Certifications Required

PMP Certification PMP Certification Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP)

Salary And Other Compensation

The annual salary for this position is a base salary between $190,000 - $210,000 depending on the experience and other qualifications of the successful candidate.

This position is also eligible for Cognizant’s discretionary annual incentive program and 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/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

Disclaimer: The salary, other compensation, and benefits information is accurate as of the date of this posting. Cognizant reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.

Salary : $190,000 - $210,000

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