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, 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. 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) employer: Ciena
Ciena stands out as an exceptional employer, offering a people-first culture that prioritises flexibility, individual growth, and well-being. With a commitment to meaningful social impact and a focus on employee development, Ciena provides unique opportunities for career advancement within the dynamic telecommunications sector across the Middle East and Africa. Join us to be part of a team that values diversity and fosters an inclusive environment where every voice is heard.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Partner Manager (ME.A)
✨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. The more connections you make, the better your chances of landing that Partner Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Ciena’s values and recent projects. Show us you understand our commitment to high-speed connectivity and how you can contribute to our mission. Tailor your answers to reflect our culture of flexibility and individual growth.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You’ll want to clearly articulate your experience in partner management and how it aligns with the role. Use specific examples that highlight your skills in managing performance and driving improvements—this is what we’re looking for!
✨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 us you’re genuinely interested in being part of the Ciena team. Let’s get you started on this exciting journey!
We think you need these skills to ace Partner Manager (ME.A)
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 how it aligns with Ciena's values and expectations. We want to see how you can make an impact!
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific achievements that demonstrate your skills in managing partner relationships and driving performance. Use metrics where possible to show how you’ve made a difference in previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use structured language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant. We appreciate confident communication, so let your personality shine through while remaining professional.
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 Partners
Before the interview, research Ciena's service partners and their performance metrics. Understanding their strengths and weaknesses will help you discuss how you can enhance these relationships and drive performance aligned with Ciena standards.
✨Showcase Your Commercial Acumen
Be prepared to discuss your experience with RFQs, pricing evaluations, and cost management. Bring examples of how you've successfully negotiated terms or improved cost competitiveness in previous roles to demonstrate your commercial savvy.
✨Demonstrate Relationship Management Skills
Think of specific instances where you've effectively managed relationships with stakeholders. Highlight your ability to communicate clearly and confidently, as well as how you've navigated challenges in a matrixed environment.
✨Prepare for Data-Driven Discussions
Ciena values data-driven insights, so be ready to talk about how you've used KPIs and dashboards to manage partner performance. Prepare to discuss any trends you've identified and how you've proactively mitigated delivery risks in the past.
