At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead technical strategy and guide sales teams in transforming networks with AI.
- Company: Ciena, a global leader in high-speed connectivity with a people-first culture.
- Benefits: Flexible work environment, focus on well-being, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with international travel opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in redefining telecommunications through intelligent automation.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in product management and experience with AI in telecom.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ 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 prioritizing 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.
Blue Planet, a division of Ciena, is redefining how communications service providers (CSPs) operate through intelligent automation and Artificial Intelligence (AI). This senior technical role supports the Blue Planet sales organization as an operations transformation expert, combining deep domain expertise with a strong customer-facing presence to help CSPs evolve toward Autonomous Networks.
How You Will Make An Impact
- Provide senior technical leadership and strategic guidance to the international sales organization.
- Articulate product vision, roadmap, and value proposition to both business and technical stakeholders.
- Apply expertise in Autonomous Networks and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to address customer business and operational challenges.
- Lead technical engagement across the sales lifecycle, including discovery, solution definition, and customer presentations.
- Review and contribute to Requests for Information (RFI) and Requests for Proposal (RFP) responses in partnership with Technical Sales Leaders.
- Define Proof of Concept (PoC) success criteria and support solution evaluations with sales and systems engineering teams.
- Drive product and solution feedback into Product Management using established internal tools and processes, including Aha!
The Must Haves
- 10+ years of experience in senior product management, pre-sales, or delivery roles within the Operations Support Systems (OSS) domain.
- 3+ years of hands‑on experience deploying Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies in telecommunications environments, including Autonomous Networking use cases.
- 12+ years of experience with telecommunications networking technologies, including Wide Area Networks (WAN), Local Area Networks (LAN), Layers 0–3 switching and routing, virtual network functions, and 5G wireless.
- Proven experience selling and/or delivering OSS solutions supporting planning, provisioning, and service assurance.
- Strong ability to translate business requirements into technical solutions and present complex concepts clearly.
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent professional experience.
- Willingness and ability to travel internationally, sometimes on short notice.
Nice To Haves
- Experience in OSS domains such as network inventory, service design, orchestration, activation, assurance, performance, or service quality management.
- Deep familiarity with the broader OSS ecosystem and products from vendors such as Amdocs, Ericsson, Netcracker, Oracle, or Nokia.
- Experience authoring solution requirement documents for OSS deployment projects.
- Knowledge of enterprise architecture frameworks and industry models such as TM Forum, Lifecycle Service Orchestration (LSO), and Metro Ethernet Forum (MEF).
- Fluency in one or more languages in addition to English.
Ciena values diversity and respects employees as individuals. We do not tolerate any 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.
Principal Solutions Architect employer: Ciena
Ciena stands out as an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that prioritises flexibility, individual growth, and well-being. As a leader in high-speed connectivity, employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact through innovative technology while contributing to societal progress. With ample opportunities for professional development and a commitment to diversity, Ciena is the ideal place for those seeking a rewarding career in the rapidly evolving field of telecommunications.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Solutions Architect
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, webinars, and meetups to connect with folks in the telecommunications and AI space. You never know who might be looking for someone with your skills!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio or a personal website where you can highlight your projects, especially those involving Autonomous Networks and AI. This gives potential employers a taste of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to OSS and AI technologies. Be ready to discuss how you've tackled challenges in previous roles and how you can help Ciena's customers evolve towards Autonomous Networks.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining the Ciena team.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Solutions Architect
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Principal Solutions Architect. Highlight your experience in OSS and AI technologies, and don’t forget to showcase your customer-facing skills. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about Autonomous Networking and how your background aligns with our mission at Ciena. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality come through!
Showcase Relevant Projects:If you've worked on projects that relate to telecommunications or AI, make sure to mention them! We’re interested in how you’ve tackled challenges and delivered solutions in the past. This is your opportunity to demonstrate your expertise.
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 us you’re keen on joining our team at Ciena!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ciena
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Autonomous Networks and AI technologies. Be ready to discuss how these concepts apply to the telecommunications industry, especially in relation to Ciena's products and services.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your 10+ years in senior product management or pre-sales roles. Highlight your hands-on experience with OSS solutions and how you've successfully translated business requirements into technical solutions.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Remember, interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about Ciena’s culture, their approach to innovation, and how they support employee growth. This shows your genuine interest in the company and the role.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
Since this role involves articulating product vision and engaging with stakeholders, practice presenting complex concepts clearly. You might even want to do a mock presentation to a friend or colleague to get comfortable with your delivery.
