Cognizant Supports Establishment of Kohler Energy

Kohler recognized Cognizant as key strategic partner for helping to successfully migrate its energy business to become a standalone entity

TEANECK, N.J., July 23, 2024 - Cognizant (NASDAQ: CTSH) has swiftly and successfully supported Kohler Co. in establishing its energy business - Kohler Energy - as a standalone entity with independent operations.

Kohler Co. had announced the strategic decision to set Kohler Energy up as a separate, independent business with Platinum Equity engaged as the majority investment partner in November 2023 to support long-term growth strategies for both Kohler Co. and Kohler Energy. The carve-out process had an expected completion timeline of six to eight months targeting autonomy of the energy business by the second quarter of 2024. The transaction closed in May 2024.

Based on past delivery and a track record of efficiency, Cognizant - Kohler's existing strategic partner - was chosen to enable this carve-out. Cognizant worked hand-in-hand with Kohler to evaluate the right approach for the carve-out, devise an optimal plan, and execute the separation of systems within the challenging timeframe of six months. The complex technology ecosystem involved 400+ IT applications across SAP ECC, Salesforce Sales & Marketing, CRM, Integration and Data and Analytics space.

"Historically, such complex separation projects require at least 14 to 20 months for successful implementation," said Anup Prasad, SVP & Head of Cognizant's Consumer Business Unit. "However, we had a narrow window of six to eight months to deliver results for Kohler. Our collaborative strategy with Kohler's team and the rapid deployment of systems like SAP and Salesforce ensured uninterrupted business continuity. I'm personally very proud of our collaboration with Kohler scaling to new heights and this outstanding achievement as a team."

Through a well-defined plan focusing on managing operational risks, ensuring business continuity, and implementing robust financial and data separation principles, Cognizant and Kohler achieved segregation of all essential systems bythe first day of the two companies operating independently. A critical milestone to enable IT systems and equip business users for regular operations was completed by May 1st, 2024.

"This was one of the more strategic and demanding programs we've tackled," said Paul Ryan, Chief Digital Officer, Kohler Co. "While the timelines were compressed and there was a high level of complexity, I had full confidence in our team's ability to deliver. The successful transition, underpinned by Cognizant's technological acumen and operational efficiency, exceeded our expectations. This successful venture has fortified our confidence in Cognizant's expertise and our relationship."

About Cognizant
Cognizant (Nasdaq: CTSH) engineers modern businesses. We help our clients modernize technology, reimagine processes and transform experiences so they can stay ahead in our fast-changing world. Together, we're improving everyday life. See how at www.cognizant.com or @cognizant.

About Kohler Co.
For more than 150 years, Kohler Co. has been a global leader in bold design and innovation, dedicated to helping people live gracious, healthy, and sustainable lives through its kitchen and bath products; luxury cabinetry, tile, and lighting; wellness products and services; and luxury hospitality experiences and major championship golf. Privately held Kohler Co. was founded in 1873 and is headquartered in Kohler, Wisconsin. The company also develops sustainable living solutions to enhance the quality of life for current and future generations. Its Innovation For Good platform addresses pressing issues, such as clean water and safe sanitation, with breakthrough products and services for underserved communities. David Kohler serves as Chair and CEO and represents the fourth generation of Kohler family leadership.