Functional Architect

The Functional Architect is a senior Workday expert who provides end-to-end strategic leadership, from solution design through implementation delivery. This individual plays a dual role across the sales and delivery lifecycle - acting as a trusted advisor during the pursuit phase and as the functional lead during deployment. In the sales process, the Functional Architect partners with pursuit teams to provide expert solutions guidance, contributing to RFPs, RFIs, proposals, and overall solution strategy. They ensure that proposed Workday solutions - across Financials, HCM, and/or Student - are scalable, fit-for-purpose, and aligned with client goals. For the deals solutioned/participated, expectation is to be part of the implementation/project, the Functional Architect leads the functional workstreams, delivering robust and future-ready solutions in collaboration with Engagement Managers, project teams, and senior client stakeholders. This role is accountable for the overall functional integrity of the solution, ensuring it meets client requirements while positioning them for long-term success with minimal rework. Broad Workday product knowledge, deep implementation expertise, and experience with other ERP systems across various industries are critical to success in this role. Key Responsibilities: Partner with pursuit and sales teams during the business development lifecycle to provide expert solution guidance, contribute to RFPs/RFIs, and support proposal creation. Own and develop effort/budgetary estimations aligning to customer asks in line with opportunity winnability Support and guide the transition from sales to delivery, ensuring continuity of design intent and solution integrity. Provide quality assurance oversight and thought leadership on in-flight implementations, contributing to ongoing project success and client satisfaction. Collaborate cross-functionally with teams across Absence, Time Tracking, Payroll, Financials, Integrations, Data, Reporting, and Change Management to ensure cohesive and aligned solution delivery. Lead the end-to-end functional solution design across the full project lifecycle - from sales pursuit through implementation - ensuring alignment with client business goals and Workday best practices. Provide functional leadership on multiple, concurrent Workday implementations, overseeing the relevant functional areas such as Core HCM, Compensation, Benefits, Talent, Performance, Recruiting, Learning, and others. Drive and facilitate key client sessions, including Architect Workshops and Confirmation Sessions, to ensure robust solution design and client alignment. Serve as the primary functional point of escalation for Engagement Managers and project teams, advocating for resolution of issues and maintaining project momentum Promote and contribute to the continuous improvement of implementation methodologies and tools (e.g., Cynergy), and ensure project teams are adhering to standardized delivery practices. Mentor and develop junior team members by providing coaching, facilitating skills development, and creating growth opportunities within and across functional domains. Champion knowledge sharing across practices to foster innovation, consistency, and continuous improvement in solution delivery. Requirements: Bachelor’s degree preferred or equivalent work experience 5+ years of actual implementation experience Strong Workday implementation experience preferred. Strong end to end implementation experience with HR, Financial, or Student Information Systems required Ability to work in diverse, fast paced environment and effectively collaborate across teams. Ability to juggle multiple projects and initiatives simultaneously Ability to identify and analyze areas of risk and develops plans to minimize. Excellent communication and presentation skills to executive staff and sponsors Willingness to travel nationally and internationally based on business needs Why choose Cognizant : Entrepreneurial environment that welcomes your ideas Opportunity to do great work Outreach programs that support communities and tap into your volunteer spirit Learning opportunities to help current needs and advancement Global operations, with opportunities in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific An abundance of Affinity groups to meet your needs Cognizant 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. Originally posted on Himalayas