Director, Sales Engineering- MOFN (EMEA)

Ciena Communications, Inc.; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 300,000 - 450,000; Full time

Job summary

Ciena Communications is seeking an EMEA SE Leader for MOFN Business to drive Global Content Provider opportunities. The candidate will build and manage a team of experts, connect with key decision-makers, and analyze market trends to enhance business strategies. A strong background in telecommunications and leadership skills are vital for this role.

Qualifications

• 15-20 years of telecommunications experience required.
• Background in Transport Engineering or Product Management essential.
• Experience with Internet Content Providers is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Build and lead a team of Pre-Sales experts.
• Monitor market trends in Data Center Networking.
• Develop expertise in Ciena's DCI offerings.

Skills

Leadership

Technical Advisory

Market Analysis

Stakeholder Management

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science

Master’s Degree (preferred)

Job description

Ciena is committed to our people-first philosophy. Our teams enjoy a culture focused on prioritizing a personalized and flexible work environment that empowers individual passions, growth, wellbeing, and belonging. We’re a technology company that leads with our humanity—driving our business priorities alongside meaningful social, community, and societal impact.

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The Opportunity / What we’re looking for :

We believe in the power of people. We are a network strategy and technology company motivated by making a difference in people’s lives—enhancing productivity, creativity, health, and comfort. Our engineers design and implement technologies that enable users to achieve great things.

The role / What you will do at Ciena :

As EMEA SE Leader for MOFN Business, the ideal candidate will perform a player-coach role, leading by example. You will build and lead a team of subject matter experts supporting Global Content Provider opportunities across EMEA.

This role requires knowledge of the Data Center Interconnect market and business models, working closely with global Ciena teams and customer teams on both Content Provider and Service Provider sides. You will connect and collaborate with key decision-makers, including strategic negotiators, technology leaders, and senior executives.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Market Tracking

• Monitor market trends in Data Center & Subsea segments
• Track technological evolution in Data Center Networking
• Follow DCI market developments and business models
• Stay informed on country data sovereignty laws, regulations around fiber acquisition, network operating licenses, etc.
• Identify business opportunities by analyzing trends

Customer / Ciena Relationships

• Build trust with key technology decision-makers and strategic negotiators
• Serve as a technical advisor and subject matter expert to customers
• Collaborate with Service Provider Sales teams
• Drive stakeholder alignment internally and externally

Team Building & Management

• Assess market opportunities with sales leadership
• Develop and nurture a team of Pre-Sales experts in DCI
• Manage team performance, recruitment, and development
• Provide executive reports and business updates

Ciena Products & Solutions

• Develop expertise in Ciena’s DCI offerings
• Lead network architecture discussions, articulating Ciena’s value
• Monitor competitive landscape
• Lead customer presentations and solution discussions
• Prepare quotes, RFx responses, and forecasts
• Manage end-to-end solution responsibilities for proposals

Travel : Approximately 25% as needed

Other :

• Evaluate technology trends and incorporate customer feedback into product development
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Desired Characteristics

• Collaborative mindset
• Ability to work with multicultural teams across time zones
• Strong team-building skills

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in CS, EE, or equivalent required
• Master’s Degree preferred
• 15-20 years of telecommunications/industry experience
• Background in Transport Engineering or Product Management required
• Experience with Internet Content Providers beneficial

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At Ciena, we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where employees feel respected, valued, and heard. We value diversity and do not tolerate discrimination. Ciena is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and veteran status. Please inform us of any accommodations needed during the application process.