Sales and Business Development Director Semiconductor and Photonics Components for AI and Data Center Networking

Sales And Business Development Director Semiconductor And Photonics Components For Ai And Data Center Networking

Position Type : Full-Time

Overview :

We are seeking an experienced Sales Director to lead our efforts in selling Silicon and Photonics Components for AI and Data Center Networking. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of driving sales growth to hyperscalers and / or optical module manufacturers, with an understanding of silicon photonics, optical modules, and the needs of large-scale data centers, hyperscalers, and optical module suppliers. As the Sales Director, you will play a pivotal role in shaping our sales strategy, leading a team to success, and building long-term relationships with key customers in the optical networking and high-performance computing sectors.

Key Responsibilities :

Sales Strategy & Leadership : Develop and lead a comprehensive sales strategy to drive growth in the photonics market, focusing on hyperscalers, optical module manufacturers, and other target customers.

Customer Relationship Management : Build and maintain strong relationships with key decision-makers at hyperscalers, telecom providers, and optical module manufacturers. Serve as the primary point of contact for top-tier customers.

Sales Pipeline Development : Identify new business opportunities, generate qualified leads, and manage the sales pipeline from initial engagement through to deal closure. Utilize your expertise to drive discussions and influence purchasing decisions.

Revenue Growth : Drive revenue through direct sales, partnership development, and strategic alliances. Set and achieve sales targets, monitor progress, and take corrective action as needed.

Technical Expertise & Solution Selling : Leverage in-depth knowledge of photonics and optical communication technologies to effectively sell solutions that meet customer needs. Work closely with the engineering and applications teams to tailor solutions and ensure customer success.

Market Intelligence : Stay abreast of market trends, competitive landscape, and customer requirements. Provide feedback to product development and marketing teams to inform product roadmaps and promotional strategies.

Contract Negotiation & Closing : Lead negotiations on contracts and pricing, ensuring mutually beneficial terms for both customers and the company. Close large, complex deals and manage high-stakes negotiations.

Team Collaboration : Work closely with cross-functional teams, including engineering, marketing, applications engineering, and product management, to ensure alignment on sales strategy, product positioning, and customer requirements.

Reporting & Forecasting : Provide regular sales forecasts, market insights, and progress reports to senior leadership. Use CRM systems and sales analytics tools to track performance, forecast revenue, and ensure accurate reporting.

Qualifications :

Educational Background : Bachelor's degree in Business, Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or a related field. An MBA or advanced degree is a plus.

Experience : Minimum of 7-10 years of sales experience in the semiconductor, photonics, or optical communications industry, with a focus on selling complex technical products to hyperscalers, telecom companies, or optical module manufacturers.

Photonics Knowledge : Deep understanding of photonics components, optical modules, optical interconnects, and related technologies. Experience with high-speed optical communication systems is highly preferred.

Sales Leadership : Proven success in leading and mentoring a sales team, with experience in managing large, strategic accounts and driving significant revenue growth.

Proven Sales Performance : Demonstrated ability to meet or exceed sales targets, with a track record of closing large deals and growing market share in a competitive environment.

Customer-Centric : Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain trusted relationships with customers at all levels, from technical engineers to C-suite executives.

Negotiation Skills : Strong contract negotiation skills, with the ability to balance customer needs with company objectives.

Travel : Willingness to travel up to 40% to meet customers, attend industry events, and engage with potential clients.

Desired Skills & Attributes :

Expertise in the hyperscale ecosystem, optical networking, and high-performance computing markets.

Familiarity with optical module industry standards (e.g., OIF, IEEE, ITU).

Strong network of industry contacts and established relationships with key players in the photonics, data center, and telecom sectors.

Entrepreneurial mindset with a results-driven approach and the ability to adapt in a rapidly evolving market.

Experience with CRM tools (Salesforce, HubSpot, etc.) and sales analytics software.

Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex technical information to non-technical stakeholders.

Infinera is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.