Director of Supply Chain Data Solutions in Slough

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.

We are seeking a dynamic and strategic leader to serve as the Director of Data Services within our Supply Chain organization. As the Supply Chain Data Services Director, you will be responsible for overseeing and implementing data-related strategies to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of our supply chain processes. You will play a pivotal role in shaping the data architecture, institutionalizing data governance standards, deriving actionable insights from data, and implementing a comprehensive data strategy and roadmap aligned to our business objectives. You will also be responsible for driving the strategic vision and execution of AI-driven data solutions across our supply chain ecosystem.

Leveraging your deep expertise in AI, machine learning, and supply chain management, you will lead a team of talented professionals and collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders to optimize our supply chain processes and elevate our competitive advantage. Through close collaboration with the Supply Chain Leaders, Sales Finance, & IT, you will impact our end-to-end supply chain transformation and planning capabilities by delivering data that is well defined, standardized and accessible. You will also be instrumental in leveraging advanced data analytics, machine learning, and AI techniques to transform our supply chain processes and enhance overall efficiency. Your knowledge in data science, coupled with your understanding of supply chain dynamics, will enable us to stay ahead of the competition and deliver an unparalleled customer experience.

How You Will Contribute

• Business Enablement
  • Develop and deliver dashboards, analytics tools, and reporting frameworks that provide actionable insights to support informed decision-making across the Supply Chain organization.
  • Partner with cross-functional teams to identify key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics critical to driving operational excellence.
  • Enable business leaders to access real-time data and analytics to improve forecasting, inventory management, and overall supply chain performance.
  • Drive the adoption of self-service analytics tools and platforms to empower teams with data-driven decision-making capabilities.
  • Proactively monitor supply chain performance metrics, analyze trends, and present actionable insights to senior management.
  • Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends related to supply chain data management, and recommend innovative solutions.
• Data Architecture
  • Develop and maintain a robust and scalable data architecture that supports the end-to-end supply chain process.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define data integration points and ensure data flows seamlessly across systems.
  • In collaboration with IT, oversee the design and implementation of data models, data warehouses, and data pipelines to support data analytics and reporting.
  • Collaborate with business stakeholders to translate their needs into scalable and efficient data solutions that support digital transformation initiatives.
  • Design and implement robust data architectures that enable seamless integration across systems and applications while ensuring scalability and efficiency.
  • Partner with IT and project teams to deliver data solutions aligned with transformation outcomes, including automation, advanced analytics, and AI-driven insights.
  • Act as a strategic advisor for digital projects, ensuring data requirements are met while driving innovation and efficiency.
• Data Governance
  • Establish and enforce data governance standards, policies, and procedures to ensure data quality, consistency, and accuracy across the organization.
  • Lead efforts to improve master data quality and manage data hierarchies, taxonomies, and definitions for key supply chain data elements.
  • Facilitate cross-functional alignment and collaboration to ensure data is structured, organized, accessible, and leveraged effectively.
  • Monitor and maintain compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards related to data management.
• Enterprise Data Management
  • Ensure the integrity, consistency, and accessibility of critical data across Supply Chain, Sales Enablement, and Finance/Accounting organizations.
  • Develop and maintain enterprise-wide data models, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and objectives.
  • Implement processes and tools to streamline data integration and synchronization across systems and departments.
  • Lead efforts to identify and resolve data discrepancies, ensuring a single source of truth for enterprise data.
• AI Strategy and Roadmap
  • In partnership with the Senior Director Digital transformation, develop and communicate a comprehensive AI strategy aligned with the company's supply chain objectives and long-term business goals.
  • Identify AI opportunities and use cases that can enhance supply chain efficiency.
  • Drive the deployment of AI-powered tools to support decision-making, process automation, and data-driven insights.
  • Create a roadmap for the successful implementation of AI solutions, considering scalability, feasibility, and ROI.
  • Stay abreast of the latest advancements in AI and machine learning technologies, and assess their potential impact on supply chain operations.
• Team Leadership
  • Provide strategic direction and mentorship to the data services team, fostering a culture of collaboration, continuous learning, and excellence.
  • Identify talent gaps and implement strategies to attract, retain, and develop top talent.
  • Set clear performance goals, conduct regular performance evaluations, and identify opportunities for professional development.

The Must Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in Data Science, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• 10+ years of experience in data analytics, data governance, or enterprise data management, with a focus on supply chain operations.
• Proven experience in delivering dashboards, analytics tools, and data solutions that drive business outcomes.
• Strong knowledge of data governance frameworks, standards, and best practices.
• Expertise in enterprise data management, including data modeling, integration, and synchronization across systems.
• Familiarity with digital transformation initiatives within supply chain and related functions.
• Proficiency in data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI), analytics platforms, and database management systems.
• Exceptional leadership and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate across diverse teams and influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities, with a focus on driving continuous improvement.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with advanced analytics, machine learning, or AI-driven solutions in supply chain operations.
• Knowledge of ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and their integration with data platforms.
• Certification in data governance or data management frameworks (e.g., DAMA, CDMP).
• Experience in managing large-scale digital transformation projects.
• Strong collaboration with team members and other departments.
• Detail oriented with analytical, time management and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Salary Range

The salary range for this role in Canada is $143,700 - $229,500. Pay ranges at Ciena are designed to accommodate variations in knowledge, skills, experience, market conditions, and locations, reflecting our diverse products, industries, and lines of business. Please note that the pay range information provided in this posting pertains specifically to the primary location, which is the top location listed in case multiple locations are available.

Non-Sales employees may be eligible for a discretionary incentive bonus, while Sales employees may be eligible for a sales commission. In addition to competitive compensation, Ciena offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, participation in 401(K) (USA) & DCPP (Canada) with company matching, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), company-paid holidays, paid sick leave, and vacation time. We also comply with all applicable laws regarding Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence.

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.