Director of Talent Acquisition - Americas

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.

This is a hybrid on-site role (not eligible for full-time remote work) where your leadership will directly influence the TA team performance and customer success.

Step into a leadership role with Ciena, the global leader in high-speed connectivity. We empower our customers, partners, and communities to thrive in the AI era by building adaptive networks that revolutionize data transmission and network management. As a visionary Director of Talent Acquisition - Americas, you’ll shape the future of how we attract top talent in technology and telecommunications by setting a strategic tone that emphasizes business alignment, market intelligence, and AI-driven efficiency.

How You Will Contribute:

• Lead and mentor a team of Strategic Talent Acquisition Advisors, fostering business-first recruiting practices and deep stakeholder relationships.

• Collaborate with global business leaders to forecast talent needs, develop tailored strategies, and integrate recruiting with workforce planning.

• Analyze market data and competitor hiring trends to refine sourcing strategies and strengthen Ciena’s employer brand.

• Drive advanced sourcing initiatives, including diversity programs and AI-enhanced talent mapping, ensuring robust pipelines for critical roles.

• Scale and oversee the North American early-in-career program, focusing on campus recruiting, internship conversions, and skill-building.

• Optimize the global employee referral program, leveraging AI tools for automated matching and enhancing internal mobility.

• Champion AI and automation in recruiting processes, tracking key metrics and implementing data-driven improvements.

The Must Haves:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field.

• 5+ years of leadership experience managing recruiting teams

• Experience in Technology or telecommunications industries.

• Proven expertise in strategic talent acquisition, competitive intelligence, and market analysis.

• Demonstrated ability to leverage AI tools for scalable and efficient recruiting processes.

• Experience with large-scale early-in-career programs and employee referral initiatives.

• Strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills to inspire teams and influence executives in a global environment.

• Willingness to travel for campus events, team meetings, or industry conferences.

Nice to Haves:

• Familiarity with North American talent markets in telecommunications, particularly optical networking.

• Global mindset with a focus on aligning regional and international talent priorities.

• Passion for innovation in talent acquisition, including generative AI technologies and advancing DEI metrics.

• Hybrid role located in Ottawa, with an expectation to be onsite three days per week.

• Advanced HR certifications or Master’s degree beneficial.

Pay Range:
The annual pay range for this position is $141,700 - $226,300.

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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.