At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead process transformation and automation programmes for top retail and consumer goods companies.
- Company: Join Cognizant's innovative Intelligent Process Automation practice.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with excellent career advancement opportunities in a collaborative environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by transforming business processes with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in consulting, process improvement, and automation is essential.
The predicted salary is between 66150 - 80850 £ per year.
Role Overview
We are looking for a Manager to join Cognizant's Intelligent Process Automation (IPA) practice — a consulting-led, client-facing role where you will deliver impactful process transformation and automation programmes for leading organisations.
This is a "Consulting & Delivery" role where you will diagnose bottlenecks in Retail Corporate Functions (Finance, HR, Supply Chain) and lead the process transformation and implementation of Intelligent Automation and ERP-driven transformations.
You will be the primary point of contact for client stakeholders, translating business "pain points" into functional and technical requirements and overseeing the Project Management Office (PMO) for large-scale technology deployments through Agile delivery.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead diagnostic assessments of "As-Is" processes in O2C, P2P, R2R, and FP&A.
Identify automation/transformation opportunities that drive working capital improvements or cost reduction.
- Conduct diagnostic assessments and process analyses to identify automation opportunities and quantify their business impact.
- Act as the lead translator.
You must understand the "why" of a business process (e. g., month-end close) and the "how" of the technology (Automation) to ensure the solution delivered by the technical team meets the business intent.
- Build and maintain strong client relationships at the working level, acting as a reliable, knowledgeable point of contact throughout each engagement.
- Target Operating Model (TOM) Design: Assist clients in defining how their teams, processes, and technology should interact post-transformation.
- Prepare high-quality deliverables including process maps, business cases, project plans, status reports, and executive presentations.
- Drive the end-to-end Agile lifecycle for automation projects, leading core ceremonies (Sprint Planning, Daily Stand-ups, Retrospectives) and maintaining a high-velocity delivery cadence while ensuring high-quality output.
- Support the development of proposals and statements of work in response to client opportunities.
- Contribute to internal practice initiatives — including methodology development, talent development activities, and knowledge management.
- Engage in continuous learning across automation tooling, analytics platforms, and industry trends relevant to client sectors.
- Key Skills & Experience
Essential
- Extensive years of experience in consulting, business operations, or process improvement, with relevant exposure to automation or transformation programmes.
- Deep Functional Expertise: Proven track record in transforming Finance & Accounting (O2C, P2P, R2R, FP&A) and Retail Operations.
- Strategic Transformation: Experience in Target Operating Model (TOM) design and large-scale Operations Transformation.
- PMO Excellence: Experience running a PMO for large technology or ERP implementations (e. g., SAP, Oracle, Workday).
- Ability to quickly learn the nuances of a client’s bespoke business processes (e. g., Retail CRM or Supply Chain) and apply transformation principles.
- Agile Proficiency: Hands-on experience with Scrum/Agile delivery frameworks.
Desirable
- Experience in retail industry transformation, retail operations, or consumer sector consulting is a strong differentiator.
- Familiarity with automation platforms such as Ui Path, Automation Anywhere, or Microsoft Power Automate.
- Scrum certification (CSM or equivalent) or formal agile training.
- Experience working in a consulting practice, managed services environment, or professional services firm.
- Knowledge of ERP systems and financial process workflows (e. g. Oracle, SAP, Workday).
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree required — BSc or BA in a relevant discipline.
- Master's degree in Management, Science, or a related field is advantageous.
- Relevant certifications in automation, agile, or process improvement (e. g. Lean Six Sigma, CSM) are a plus.
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Consulting Manager – Process Transformation, Finance and Operations (Retail and Consumer goods) in London employer: Cognizant
Cognizant is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, making it an ideal place for professionals seeking to excel in their careers. With a strong emphasis on employee growth and development, you will have access to mentorship opportunities and the chance to lead transformative projects in a dynamic environment. Located in a vibrant area, Cognizant offers unique advantages such as a diverse team and a commitment to work-life balance, ensuring that your contributions are both meaningful and rewarding.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Consulting Manager – Process Transformation, Finance and Operations (Retail and Consumer goods) in London
✨Tip Number 1: Get Involved in Consulting Case Competitions
Look for case competitions hosted by universities and consulting firms. They’re a fab way to showcase your problem-solving skills and meet industry players. Plus, winning one can seriously boost your CV, which we know is key when applying for roles like Consulting Manager – Process Transformation, Finance and Operations (Retail and Consumer goods) at Cognizant!
✨Tip Number 2: Leverage Alumni Networks
Tap into your university’s alumni network; many consultants love to help out new talent. Reach out to alumni who are working in management consulting, they might have insider knowledge about openings at firms like Cognizant or be willing to refer you for that Consulting Manager – Process Transformation, Finance and Operations (Retail and Consumer goods) position!
✨Tip Number 3: Attend Industry Events and Conferences
Keep an eye on management consulting events, workshops, or panels. These are prime opportunities to network with top professionals and get your name out there. You might even bump into someone from Cognizant who’s on the lookout for their next Consulting Manager – Process Transformation, Finance and Operations (Retail and Consumer goods) star!
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Engage with online platforms that offer consulting simulations or courses. Prove your chops by completing relevant projects — this not only beefs up your experience but also gives you concrete examples to chat about during interviews for that full-time Consulting Manager – Process Transformation, Finance and Operations (Retail and Consumer goods) role at Cognizant!
We think you need these skills to ace Consulting Manager – Process Transformation, Finance and Operations (Retail and Consumer goods) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Problem-Solving Skills:In management consulting, it's all about problem-solving—so make sure your CV highlights your analytical and critical thinking skills. Include examples from your studies or previous roles where you tackled complex issues or came up with innovative solutions. Quantify your achievements whenever possible to demonstrate your impact!
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to explain why you're a perfect fit for the consulting world. Focus on your motivation for joining the industry and how your skills align with the requirements of the role at Cognizant. Remember to mention any relevant coursework or projects that showcase your understanding of strategic frameworks or business models!
Highlight Team Experience:Consultants often work in teams, so it's vital to showcase your collaborative skills. Include experiences where you've worked effectively with others, whether in academic group projects or internships. Discuss your role in the team and how you helped achieve common goals, demonstrating you can thrive in a consultancy environment.
Professionalise Your Online Presence:Make sure your LinkedIn and any other professional profiles are up to date, reflecting your career aspirations in management consulting. Connect with industry professionals and follow relevant groups—show you’re serious about entering this field. Applying through our website is a great way to get noticed, so showcase your personality and enthusiasm there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cognizant
✨Master the Case Study Game
In management consulting, case study interviews are all the rage. Make sure to practice structuring your thoughts and analysing data on the fly. Use resources like example case studies to get comfortable with frameworks and solutions. Remember, it’s not just about getting the right answer but showcasing your thought process, so talk us through your reasoning!
✨Know Your Numbers
Be prepared for some numerical and analytical questions. Brush up on your mental math and be ready to interpret data from charts or graphs. We might throw some business scenarios at you that require a quick turnaround on numerical analysis, so practice these skills to feel confident and swift!
✨Show Your Leadership Flair
As this is a full-time role, we want to see your potential as a seasoned consultant. Be ready to discuss experiences where you've led a project or a team. Think about times you've influenced decisions or navigated challenges—this is your chance to show how you can thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
✨Be a Cultural Fit
We’re not just looking for brains; we want to see if you vibe with our company culture at Cognizant. Prepare to share how your values align with ours. Have a think about what makes a great team environment for you and how you can contribute to that. A good cultural fit goes a long way in management consulting!
