Optical Systems Product Line Manager

Ciena is a global leader in high-speed connectivity with a focus on a people-first approach. They are seeking an Optical Systems Product Line Manager to drive the strategy and lifecycle execution of optical systems, aligning product strategy with market demand and collaborating with cross-functional teams to achieve 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%