Project Manager, Associate - New Grad in London
Project Manager, Associate - New Grad

Project Manager, Associate - New Grad in London

London Entry level 28800 - 48000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support project management teams to ensure successful delivery of customer projects.
  • Company: Join Ciena, a global leader in high-speed connectivity with a people-first culture.
  • Benefits: Flexible work environment, professional growth opportunities, and a focus on well-being.
  • Why this job: Shape the future of network technology and make a real impact in a digital world.
  • Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in software engineering or business; project management experience preferred.
  • Other info: Collaborative environment with strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion.

The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.

Join to apply for the Project Manager, Associate - New Grad role at Ciena. 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.

At Blue Planet, a division of Ciena, we empower our teams to shape the future of network technology—delivering solutions that truly matter. Our work transforms how people connect, collaborate, and thrive in a digital world.

Responsibilities

  • Support the responsibilities of the Project Management (PMO) team to lead, oversee and ensure successful implementation, delivery and management of customer projects within a Customer Solution.
  • Ensure PMO target margins are achieved, contributing to accurate revenue recognition, ensuring committed schedules and deliverables are met, and that projects meet Customer's expectations for quality and service.
  • Review of PMO Portfolio and help to ensure that Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are being met.
  • Identify and schedule project deliverables, milestones, and required activities and tasks.
  • Assist in coordinating project team activities and support senior PMs in resource planning.
  • Establish work plan and staffing for project activities, iterations or phases, and arrange for assignment of project personnel.
  • Manage the PMO playbook including ways of working, maintenance of key templates.
  • Document and communicate project status, obstacles and resolutions to management.
  • Perform risk assessment and implement mitigation plans.
  • Project Manager may support pre‐sales activities, providing project management subject matter expertise and contributing to Customer proposals and RFP responses, as required.
  • Interface across Blue Planet teams and Customer Success teams, GTM, Customer Support, and Finance to ensure project deliverables and financial targets are met.
  • May be required to contribute to process management optimization efforts associated with project management.

Success Will Evidence Itself In The Following Ways

  • Ability to support large volume of projects meeting scope requirements and meeting or bettering on‐time commitments and financial objectives.
  • Delivers superior customer experience built on responsiveness and quality.
  • Demonstrates value of Blue Planet services through superior performance.
  • Galvanizes project delivery team in unified action and mindset.
  • Possesses positivity and strong work ethic to 'never give up' attitude.
  • Mature business 'customer first' demeanor.
  • Attention to detail is critical.
  • Recognises problems and responds constructively.

Ideal Profile

  • Critical Thinking / Analysis – analyses multi‐dimensional problems; gathers information over extended periods of time and applies complex concepts to generate possible solutions.
  • Judgment – evaluates complex decisions considering multiple options.
  • Decisiveness – delivers decisions in the face of competing alternatives.
  • Outstanding planning, scheduling, and coordination skills.
  • Strong understanding of technology, Professional Services and business acumen.
  • Strong business judgment and ability to think through complex business issues.
  • Works collaboratively in matrix environment, with many stakeholders.
  • Results oriented, collaborator and accountable.
  • Outstanding verbal and written communications.
  • Ideally experience with Project Management tools e.g. Microsoft Project, Kantata, Excel, PowerPoint, Salesforce, Jira, Confluence.
  • Knowledge of software engineering and software delivery methodologies.

Education and Experience

  • Bachelor's degree in software engineering, business or related field.
  • Up to 12 months of project management experience (internships, co‐ops, or academic projects welcome).
  • Work experience strongly preferred.
  • Project management certifications (Prince2, PMP, Scrum) are a plus but not required.
  • Experience having worked in a matrix organization that includes demonstrating strong influencing and collaborative skills across multiple teams.

Competencies

  • Eagerness to learn and develop project management skills.
  • Strong organizational abilities.
  • Collaborative mindset and willingness to work in a matrix environment.
  • Customer‐focused attitude and attention to detail.
  • Excellent communication skills.

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.

Project Manager, Associate - New Grad 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. As part of the Blue Planet division, employees are empowered to innovate in network technology, contributing to meaningful projects that enhance connectivity in a digital world. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, Ciena offers ample opportunities for professional development and a collaborative culture that values every team member's contributions.
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Contact Detail:

Ciena Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Project Manager, Associate - New Grad in London

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections on LinkedIn or at university events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that Project Manager role.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for those interviews by practising common questions and scenarios related to project management. We suggest using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. It’ll help you showcase your skills effectively!

✨Tip Number 3

Don’t forget to research Ciena and Blue Planet! Understanding their culture and values will not only impress your interviewers but also help you tailor your responses to show you’re a perfect fit for their team.

✨Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Let’s get you started on your journey to becoming a Project Manager!

We think you need these skills to ace Project Manager, Associate - New Grad in London

Project Management
Critical Thinking
Analytical Skills
Planning and Scheduling
Coordination Skills
Communication Skills
Customer-Focused Attitude
Attention to Detail
Collaboration
Problem-Solving Skills
Technical Understanding
Project Management Tools (e.g. Microsoft Project, Jira, Confluence)
Risk Assessment
Decision-Making

Some tips for your application 🫔

Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Project Manager, Associate role. Highlight your relevant experiences and skills that align with the job description. We want to see how you can contribute to our team!

Showcase Your Projects: If you've worked on any projects during your studies or internships, be sure to mention them! Detail your role, the challenges faced, and how you contributed to the project's success. This will help us see your practical experience in action.

Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to understand your qualifications.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!

How to prepare for a job interview at Ciena

✨Know Your Projects

Before the interview, take some time to review any projects you've worked on, whether during internships or academic settings. Be ready to discuss your role, the challenges you faced, and how you contributed to the project's success. This will show your understanding of project management principles and your ability to apply them.

✨Familiarise Yourself with Ciena

Research Ciena and its Blue Planet division thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and the specific technologies they work with. This knowledge will help you tailor your answers to align with their culture and demonstrate your genuine interest in the company.

✨Prepare for Scenario Questions

Expect questions that assess your critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Prepare examples of how you've handled complex situations or made decisions under pressure. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses clearly and effectively.

✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit

Since the role involves working in a matrix environment, be prepared to discuss your experience collaborating with diverse teams. Highlight instances where you successfully influenced others or resolved conflicts, showcasing your teamwork and communication skills.

Project Manager, Associate - New Grad in London
Ciena
Location: London
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  • Project Manager, Associate - New Grad in London

    London
    Entry level
    28800 - 48000 £ / year (est.)
  • C

    Ciena

    1000-5000
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