Program Manager

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.

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Job Description

Join Blue Planet, a division of Ciena — and help lead the delivery of complex, high‑impact customer programs that are transforming how networks operate.

As a senior member of our Professional Services organization, this role leads cross‑functional teams, cultivates strong customer relationships, and drives the successful delivery of strategic service engagements. It’s an opportunity to influence outcomes at the highest levels and shape how customers experience the power of our software.

How you will make an impact:

Lead cross‑functional teams to build and execute integrated delivery plans that balance scope, schedule, and budget

Establish and maintain comprehensive management plans for risks, issues, communications, contingency, and team working agreements

Guide internal teams and customers through the full project lifecycle while ensuring alignment to objectives and high‑quality outcomes

Anticipate and address risks by facilitating solution paths and aligning stakeholders toward the best possible resolution

Serve as the primary liaison across customers, internal teams, and partners to drive clarity, collaboration, and accountability

Mentor and support junior team members to enable collective success and a high‑performing project culture

Oversee administrative and operational requirements, including financial tracking, reporting, invoicing, and approvals, in accordance with defined policies

The must haves:

Bachelor’s degree in business management, communications, engineering, or a related field (+)

Minimum 7 years of experience in project or program management, ideally within a professional services environment

PMP, Prince2, or MSP certification (MBA or equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of certification)

Demonstrated ability to interpret commercial documents and develop delivery plans aligned to contractual commitments

Strong analytical, problem‑solving, leadership, and interpersonal skills

Proven experience communicating with business and IT executives with clarity and confidence

Proficiency with Jira, Microsoft Project, SharePoint, and Excel

Nice to haves:

MBA or equivalent advanced degree

Experience with Mavenlink or Salesforce applications

Background working in a software‑focused organization or with large enterprise customers

Familiarity with Agile methodology, Scrum framework, and software development lifecycle practices

Ability to manage teams and stakeholders across multiple time zones

Experience collaborating with partners or vendors in a complex delivery environment

Flexibility to travel occasionally

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.

If contacted in relation to a job opportunity, please advise Ciena of any accommodation measures you may require.