This I&MI AE will be responsible for driving optics, service provider routing, optical, automation and provider connectivity assurance sales to data center and colocation providers supporting large-scale AI networks in Cisco’s TMC sales area within the Americas Service Provider (ASP) theater. The successful candidate must be able to develop strong relationships with key customer contacts, including at the executive level, to understand customer business drivers and influence their tactical and strategic plans for using technology and solutions offered through the I&MI business entities. The AE will be responsible for leading customers through major network architecture transitions and specifically through technology upgrades to support Artificial Intelligence (AI) adoption. The candidate will have a particular focus on driving optics sales and Data Center Interconnect (DCI) solutions. The AE will drive architectural transitions leveraging Cisco’s Routed Optical Networking (RON) solutions. The architecture AE will work closely with the Cisco portfolio sellers and partners to capture new franchises and win back I&MI business.
All actions must be a part of a complete business plan which allows the successful candidate to meet and exceed assigned quota. Extensive knowledge of Cisco optics, optical, and routing offers is essential for success in this role. Understanding competitor’s solutions in these areas is also critical. Candidates must have a strong understanding of the growing data center environment including the role of Ethernet and Infiniband. Candidates should show a proven success in new account hunting, developing sales strategies, and establishing strong new relationships. Their capabilities should include sales strategy, opportunity discovery, forecasting, quota attainment, excellent sales presentation skills, and short-term, mid-term, and long-term opportunity management skills. Strong spoken and verbal communication skills are essential. Candidates should display strong time management skills, an ability to manage multiple tasks and opportunities, and generate product demand at large scale.
Candidates should have a demonstrated record of success in sales and sales leadership, with corresponding strong sales processes.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Understanding and experience with optics and optical networking is required
- Understanding and experience with routing technologies is required
- Requires a minimum BA/BS degree or equivalent and 10+ years of sales experience in a fast-paced, high-technology environment
- Travel >35%
Preferred Qualifications:
- Understanding and experience with automation and assurance solutions
- Understanding of Data Center switching solutions
- Business planning skills
- An autonomous work ethic
- An innate ability to work effectively in a large, matrixed organization
