Optical Systems Product Line Manager

Ciena is a global leader in high-speed connectivity, committed to a people-first approach. The Optical Systems Product Line Manager drives the strategy, definition, and lifecycle execution of industry-leading optical systems, influencing portfolio direction and partnering closely with cross-functional teams to deliver sustained business growth.

Responsibilities:

• Align optical systems products and portfolio strategy with market demand through direct engagement with customers and account teams
• Drive cross‑portfolio evolution in partnership with PLM leadership to support Ciena’s corporate growth objectives
• Optimize product and solution cost structures through collaboration with R&D, supply chain, and procurement teams
• Prioritize and sequence feature development with R&D to support timely and competitive product releases
• Establish and maintain pricing strategies in collaboration with sales teams and customers
• Articulate competitive differentiation through partnership with marketing to ensure clear positioning for sales, customers, and the financial community
• Lead cross‑functional collaboration across sales, marketing, and R&D to execute portfolio strategy and lifecycle plans

Requirements:

• Education: Master's degree in Electrical Engineering OR Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, with specialization in fiber optics, telecommunications, networking, or communications systems, or equivalent experience
• Experience: 5+ years of relevant industry experience with progressive responsibility in optical systems or related technologies
• Translation of portfolio strategy into actionable product requirements and release plans
• Definition and management of product roadmaps and R&D priorities to drive market share and revenue growth
• Execution of full product lifecycle management from concept through product retirement
• Development and communication of product value propositions to sales teams and customers
• Participation in lead customer engagements and key bid activities to support sales execution
• Education: Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Background in optical fiber communications product development
• Experience leading new product introductions into customer environments
• Experience growing product revenue in competitive market conditions
• Application of program and project management practices across cross‑functional teams
• Demonstrated ability to build trusted relationships with customers and internal stakeholders
• Willingness to travel up to 25%