At a Glance
- 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, growth opportunities, and a focus on well-being.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to respect, value, and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in shaping customer experiences through trusted partnerships.
- 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. For more than 25 years, Ciena has been the global leader in high-speed connectivity, enabling adaptive networks that power the world’s most advanced digital experiences.
This Partner Manager role sits at the center 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
Ciena is an exceptional employer that prioritises a people-first approach, fostering a flexible work environment that champions individual growth and well-being. With a strong commitment to social impact and community engagement, employees are empowered to make meaningful contributions while enjoying high visibility and ownership in their roles. The Partner Manager position offers unique opportunities for professional development within a collaborative culture, making Ciena an attractive choice for those seeking a rewarding career in the telecommunications sector.
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 about reaching out on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Ciena and its culture. Understand their values and how they prioritise a people-first approach. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their mission and how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or use online resources to refine your answers. Focus on articulating your experience in partner management and how you’ve driven performance in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the Ciena team and being part of their impactful journey.
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 telecommunications, and show how your skills align with Ciena's values and mission.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific achievements that demonstrate your impact in previous roles. Use metrics where possible to illustrate your success in managing partner performance and driving improvements.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use structured language and avoid jargon. This will help us quickly understand your qualifications and how you can contribute to our team.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ciena
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Ciena's services and their impact on high-speed connectivity. Understand their partner management strategies and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Relationship Skills
Since this role is all about managing partner relationships, prepare examples that highlight your relationship management skills. Think of times when you successfully navigated challenges with partners or stakeholders.
✨Be Data-Driven
Ciena values data-driven insights, so come prepared with examples of how you've used KPIs and performance metrics in your previous roles. Discuss how you’ve anticipated risks and implemented proactive solutions.
✨Ask Smart Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few insightful questions ready. Ask about Ciena's approach to partner governance or how they measure success in service delivery. This shows your genuine interest and strategic thinking.
