Senior Manager, Sales Engineering

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

What will you do at Ciena

Ciena is looking for a highly motivated and talented customer-facing manager for a new IP and Optical Sales Engineering ME team, addressing customer requirements and opportunities across Middle East customers. This is a great opportunity to lead a dedicated team of Sales engineers, covering all levels of technology provided by Ciena. The role involves coaching the team and engaging with customers at various technical levels to position Ciena's solutions.

This manager will own the technical long-term strategy for this major focus area and will be accountable for the team's direction and outcomes across the ME region.

The position involves direct management of a highly technical sales engineering team, close collaboration with regional sales leaders, and liaising with senior/director-level counterparts within Ciena. The role requires knowledge of optical transport and IP technologies, and a good understanding of the submarine telecommunication market and business models.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

Customer / Ciena Relationships

• Build trust with key technology decision makers within the customer base
• Serve as the subject matter expert and technical advisor to our customers
• Liaise with other sales teams and foster collaboration on shared projects

Team Building & Management

• Assess market opportunities alongside Sales Leaders
• Build and nurture a strong technical team of Pre-Sales experts
• Manage team functions (Performance, Appraisals, Feedback, Hiring, etc.)
• Prepare executive readouts and business reports
• Define SE team objectives, mentor team members for development and training

Ciena Products & Solutions

• Develop expertise in Ciena's optical transport and IP solutions
• Lead network architecture discussions, compare solutions, and articulate Ciena's value proposition
• Stay aware of the competitive landscape in technology and commercial models
• Lead customer product solution discussions and presentations
• Prepare quotes, RFXs, and forecasts
• Own the end-to-end solution responsibility for Ciena proposals to customers
• Collaborate across SE, S3, and PLM functions

Market Tracking

• Monitor technology evolution and network architecture trends
• Track regional regulations related to fiber acquisition and network licenses
• Identify business opportunities based on market trends

Areas of Impact

• Establish a strong industry profile and influence in the technology segment
• Maintain good knowledge of Ciena and competitors' solutions
• Possess expert knowledge of optical transport technologies and understanding of core routing/switching technologies
• Demonstrate exceptional team management and influence skills
• Exhibit strong process management, problem-solving, and organizational skills
• Communicate effectively and build relationships across the organization
• Travel as needed (~20%)

Experience

• Technical Degree (BSEE or relevant)
• 10+ years in the telecommunications industry
• Proven experience in the communication industry with a mix of engineering and sales experience
• Business acumen with understanding of sales cycles
• Experience working cross-functionally and leading by influence
• Engagements at senior/director levels within organizations

Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and Arabic, both technical and non-technical.

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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 for disability and protected veteran status.

If contacted regarding a job opportunity, please inform Ciena of any accommodations you may require.