[Hiring] Director of Sales Engineering @Ciena

Role Description

We, the Ciena Global Cloud Networking Sales Team, are looking for an experienced technical business professional to direct a team of sales engineers to scale the consumption of Ciena’s products and solutions within our customers. You will lead the engineering of network solutions, and provide technology introduction, technical interface, support, and leadership into the major GCN accounts in the region.

As the customer-facing SE Director for the GCN Team, the ideal candidate requires a strong understanding of current and future trends in cloud network architectures, optical and routing products, network software, and applications in the Cloud Networking ecosystem. The candidate must be able to drive technical and sales engagements ensuring Ciena’s hardware and software direction aligns with customer needs.

This hire will support our customers in the Northwest region of North America. Travel is required to visit Global Cloud Networking (GCN) customers that are primarily based in the US, with occasional international travel, and travel to Ciena R&D headquarters in Ottawa, Canada. Proximity to our customer base is preferred but not required.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of Cloud Networking ecosystem, operations, planning, engineering, software environments & emerging applications.
• Team management and project/product management experience.
• Outstanding presentation skills and the ability to articulate sophisticated concepts to cross-functional audiences.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Proven leadership, problem-solving, project management skills, and strong attention to detail.
• Ability to juggle multiple priorities and make things happen in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills; ability to use hard data and metrics to back the strategic narrative.
• Strong and respected relationships with ICP decision-makers.
• Detailed understanding of cloud networks (Data Center, Edge, and Core).
• Detailed understanding of SDN required, along with network element APIs.
• Excellent time management skills; planning, prioritization, execution & follow-up.
• Professional in conduct and appearance.

Requirements

• Lead and continue to build a Sales Engineering team that drives standard methodologies across the key SE team functions (Engineering, Support, Operations, and New Product Introduction).
• Work with Ciena engineering, services, and operations team to deliver world-class customer experience for our customers.
• Support a strong group of SE leaders in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
• Prepare and give business strategy reviews to senior management regarding opportunity size, progress, technology gaps, and risks.
• Provide solutions sales & business development oversight for the GCN vertical - specifically focused on Ciena’s Software, Routing & Edge strategies.
• Ensure accurate & timely reporting, forecasting, order & revenue execution.
• Develop strong & positive relationships with Ciena Operations, PLM, Software & Support teams.
• Make independent decisions on routine sales management activities in accordance with company policy and procedures.
• Ability to perform and communicate outside of standard business hours as needed.
• Ability to work within a globally matrixed sales team.
• 25%+ travel may be required.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision plans.
• Participation in 401(K) (USA) & DCPP (Canada) with company matching.
• Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP).
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Company-paid holidays, paid sick leave, and vacation time.
• Compliance with all applicable laws regarding Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence.

Company Description

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena builds the critical infrastructure powering the AI era. We’re a technology company shaping the future of networking, guided by innovation, integrity, and collaboration. Through development opportunities, meaningful work, and flexibility, Ciena supports growth and well-being—on and off the job.