Director, Financial Planning and Analysis (APJI)

Job description

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. Ciena is seeking a strategic and analytical Regional FP&A Advisor to drive financial strategy, planning, and performance management for our regional operations. This leadership role is pivotal in aligning financial goals with business objectives, delivering actionable insights, and ensuring sustainable growth and profitability. With a focus on talent development, this position offers the potential to transition into broader leadership opportunities, including the Director FP&A Leader role. How You Will Contribute Lead the regional financial planning and analysis process, including annual budgeting, quarterly forecasting, and long-term strategic planning. Partner with regional leadership to align financial goals with business objectives, ensuring sustainable growth and profitability. Deliver actionable insights through detailed financial analysis, including variance analysis, trend analysis, and scenario modeling, driving cost efficiency and margin optimization. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure financial plans align with business goals, market dynamics, and organizational priorities, enabling informed decision-making. Ensure timely and accurate preparation of financial reports, dashboards, and presentations for regional and corporate stakeholders. Drive continuous improvement in financial processes and reporting tools to enhance efficiency and accuracy. Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability within the finance function, providing coaching and professional development opportunities to team members. The Must Haves Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related field; MBA or CPA preferred. 10+ years of progressive experience in FP&A, financial strategy, or related roles, preferably in the technology, networking, or telecommunications industry. Proven track record of success in a leadership role, managing regional or global FP&A functions. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with expertise in synthesizing complex data into actionable insights. Proficiency in financial systems and tools (e.g., Hyperion, SAP, Oracle, or similar), advanced Excel and financial modeling techniques, and Power BI. Strong understanding of revenue accounting concepts and predictive analytics using AI tools. Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to simplify messaging and influence outcomes across geographies and time zones. Nice to Haves Experience in aligning numbers to business concepts and translating financial data into impactful recommendations. Demonstrated ability to streamline FP&A processes and improve reporting timeliness through automation tools. Strategic mindset with a proactive approach to identifying opportunities and mitigating risks. Highly organized and detail-oriented, capable of managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Strong interpersonal skills, fostering trust and collaboration across teams. Proven ability to develop high-performing FP&A teams and contribute to talent development initiatives. Familiarity with financial compliance and regulatory requirements. 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.