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- Tasks: Manage service partner relationships and drive performance across the Middle East and Africa.
- Company: Ciena, a global leader in high-speed connectivity with a people-first culture.
- Benefits: Flexible work environment, focus on individual growth, and commitment to well-being.
- Other info: Join a diverse team that values respect, inclusion, and personal development.
- Why this job: Shape customer experiences and influence delivery quality in a dynamic tech environment.
- Qualifications: 2-5 years in partner management or operations within telecommunications.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 70000 £ per year.
As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena is committed to a people-first approach. Our teams enjoy a culture focused on prioritising a flexible work environment that empowers individual growth, well-being, and belonging. We’re a technology company that leads with our humanity—driving our business priorities alongside meaningful social, community, and societal impact.
This Partner Manager role sits at the centre of Ciena’s service delivery model across the Middle East and Africa, shaping how customers experience Ciena through its trusted service partners. The role offers high visibility, regional ownership, and the opportunity to directly influence delivery quality, cost competitiveness, and partner maturity at scale.
How you will make an impact:
- Own and govern service partner relationships across assigned Middle East and Africa countries, driving performance aligned with Ciena standards
- Lead partner delivery performance management, including service-level agreements (SLAs), quality metrics, and operational escalations
- Drive cost competitiveness through request for quotation (RFQ) execution, pricing analysis, negotiation, and continuous improvement
- Ensure consistent adherence to Ciena delivery processes, quality frameworks, and governance models
- Conduct structured business reviews with partners and internal stakeholders across Customer Operations, Quality, and Procurement
- Anticipate delivery risks through data-driven insight and lead proactive mitigation plans
- Provide regional market intelligence to inform partner strategy, pricing trends, and capacity planning
The must haves:
- 2–5 years of experience in partner management, vendor management, service delivery, or operations within telecommunications or a comparable technical services environment
- Demonstrated commercial acumen, including RFQs, pricing evaluation, and cost management
- Proven ability to manage partner performance using key performance indicators (KPIs), dashboards, and trend analysis
- Experience leading delivery escalations and driving timely, effective resolution
- Strong relationship management skills across internal and external stakeholders
- Ability to operate effectively in a matrixed, cross-functional environment
- Clear, structured, and confident written and verbal communication skills
Nice to haves:
- Experience managing service partners across multiple Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) countries
- Knowledge of telecom installation, deployment, field services, or maintenance environments
- Familiarity with partner governance models, performance scorecards, or maturity frameworks
- Exposure to contract interpretation, commercial terms, or services policy environments
- Multilingual capability, particularly in European or regional languages
At Ciena, we are committed to building and fostering an environment in which our employees feel respected, valued, and heard. Ciena values the diversity of its workforce and respects its employees as individuals. We do not tolerate any form of discrimination. Ciena is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status. If contacted in relation to a job opportunity, please advise Ciena of any accommodation measures you may require.
Partner Manager (ME.A) in London employer: Ciena Government Solutions
Contact Detail:
Ciena Government Solutions Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Partner Manager (ME.A) in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy to reach out on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Ciena’s values and recent projects. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their mission and how you can contribute to their success.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the Partner Manager role. Highlight your skills in managing partner relationships and driving performance—make it clear why you’re the perfect fit.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Ciena team and contributing to their amazing culture.
We think you need these skills to ace Partner Manager (ME.A) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Partner Manager role. Highlight your experience in partner management and service delivery, and show how it aligns with Ciena's values and requirements.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific achievements that demonstrate your commercial acumen and ability to manage partner performance. Use metrics and examples to make your case stronger!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it structured and to the point. Ciena values clear communication, so make sure your writing reflects that. Avoid jargon and focus on clarity.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ciena Government Solutions
✨Know Your Partners
Before the interview, research Ciena's service partners in the Middle East and Africa. Understand their strengths, weaknesses, and how they align with Ciena’s standards. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge of partner management and show that you're ready to take ownership of those relationships.
✨Showcase Your Commercial Acumen
Be prepared to discuss your experience with RFQs, pricing analysis, and cost management. Bring examples of how you've successfully negotiated terms or improved cost competitiveness in previous roles. This will highlight your ability to drive performance aligned with Ciena's business priorities.
✨Demonstrate Data-Driven Decision Making
Ciena values data-driven insights, so come equipped with examples of how you've used KPIs and dashboards to manage partner performance. Discuss any structured business reviews you've conducted and how you’ve anticipated delivery risks using data. This will show your analytical skills and proactive approach.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Strong communication skills are essential for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, both verbally and in writing. Prepare to discuss how you've managed relationships with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring you convey your ability to operate effectively in a cross-functional environment.