Workday Adaptive Principal Consultant

The Principal Consultant – Adaptive Planning is a delivery role responsible for leading complex workstreams and end‑to‑end solution delivery within Workday Adaptive Planning implementations. This role bridges hands‑on configuration and design with solution leadership and client engagement.The Principal Consultant operates with a high degree of autonomy, owns functional outcomes across one or more workstreams, and acts as a trusted advisor to clients while escalating strategically and partnering closely with Senior Principal Consultants and Engagement Managers. Key Responsibilities:Lead the design, configuration, testing, and implementation of Workday Adaptive Planning solutions across budgeting, forecasting, reporting, and FP&A use casesOwn one or more functional workstreams end‑to‑end, including scope, solution quality, timelines, and client engagementTranslate complex business requirements into scalable, best‑practice Adaptive Planning solutionsFacilitate client design workshops and solution walkthroughs with minimal supervisionIdentify cross‑workstream dependencies and proactively manage risks and delivery issuesAct as a primary day‑to‑day client contact for assigned workstreamsSupport project planning, estimates, and delivery inputs in collaboration with Engagement ManagersContribute to practice assets, accelerators, and reusable artefacts Duties & Tasks:Lead Adaptive Planning model design including versions, dimensions, sheets, assumptions, and calculationsDesign and oversee complex financial models and reporting structures aligned to client FP&A processesGuide data integration and migration activities, working closely with integration and data teamsLead UAT planning and execution, including defect triage and resolutionEnsure high‑quality documentation including design decisions, test scripts, and handover materialsProvide regular status updates and risk assessments to Engagement ManagerActively participate in internal enablement, knowledge‑sharing, and capability‑building initiatives Education & Experience Requirements:Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, Business, or equivalent experience4–7 years of experience in FP&A, budgeting, forecasting, or performance management roles (end user or implementer)2+ years of Workday Adaptive Planning or equivalent planning tool implementation experienceExperience leading solution design and delivery workstreams on medium to large implementationsPrior consulting experience is strongly preferred Skills & Competencies:Strong expertise in Workday Adaptive Planning (or equivalent planning platforms such as Anaplan, TM1, Hyperion, OneStream)Deep understanding of FP&A processes, financial modelling, and management reportingProven ability to lead design sessions and articulate solutions to senior finance stakeholdersStrong analytical, problem‑solving, and solution‑driven mindsetExcellent verbal and written communication skillsStrong stakeholder and relationship management capabilities#LI-RemoteWhy choose Cognizant:Entrepreneurial environment that welcomes your ideasOpportunity to do great workOutreach programs that support communities and tap into your volunteer spiritLearning opportunities to help current needs and advancementGlobal operations, with opportunities in North America, Europe and Asia PacificAn abundance of Affinity groups to meet your needsCognizant Core Values:Work as One: We think beyond roles, relying on each other’s strengths to win as a team.Raise the Bar: We always aim for excellence in how we work and what we deliver.Dare to Innovate: We push boundaries and take chances to reimagine what’s possible.Do the Right Thing: We all lead with integrity and always make the ethical choice.Own It: We own the outcomes for our company, colleagues, and community.