Product Manager – Cisco Collaboration and Data Center

Role Overview

We are searching for a highly experienced and commercially savvy Product Manager specializing in Cisco Collaboration and Data Center solutions to direct the expansion and profitability within our Value-Added Distribution (VAD) sector. This leader will manage business strategies, vendor relations, channel partnerships, portfolio oversight, and go-to-market execution aimed at accelerating adoption of Cisco solutions throughout the channel network.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the Cisco Collaboration and Data Center portfolio, overseeing revenue, gross profit, and profitability along with forecasting and market expansion.
• Create and implement business plans both annually and quarterly that align with Cisco’s and the organization's goals.
• Forge and sustain strategic connections with Cisco business managers, partner account managers, and critical channel partners.
• Drive initiatives including partner recruitment, onboarding, enablement, and growth.
• Develop and launch Go-To-Market (GTM) strategies for Cisco Collaboration and Data Center offerings, encompassing software and subscription models.
• Collaborate with sales, pre-sales, and marketing teams to identify, qualify, and nurture strategic business opportunities.
• Manage pricing, special bids, deal registrations, and commercial negotiations with Cisco and partners.
• Promote Cisco subscription schemes, including Enterprise Agreements, Managed Service Provider agreements, Managed Services License Agreements, and licensing models.
• Assist partners in creating managed collaboration, hybrid work, and data center service packages.
• Organize partner enablement programs such as technical workshops, webinars, client events, and campaigns driving demand generation.
• Conduct Quarterly Business Reviews alongside Cisco and key channel partners.
• Track sales performance, pipeline health, forecast accuracy, and take corrective measures as necessary.
• Analyze market trends, competition, and customer needs to uncover new business prospects.
• Ensure adherence to Cisco partner programs, certifications, and distribution policies.

Qualifications and Skills

• Proficient in Cisco Collaboration technologies including Webex Suite, Webex Calling, CUCM, Unity Connection, Contact Centers, and Collaboration Endpoints such as Desk, Room, Board, and IP Phones.
• Knowledgeable in Cisco Data Center technologies including Nexus Switching, UCS, ACI, X-Fabric, MDS Storage Networking, Intersight, and AppDynamics.
• Expertise in hybrid work and cloud collaboration solutions.
• Strong understanding of Cisco licensing and commercial programs, including Enterprise Agreements, MSP, Smart Licensing, Subscription Licensing, and Partner Programs.
• Experience with product management, vendor management, channel development, and business oversight.
• Excellent commercial insight covering pricing, profitability, forecasting, and business planning.
• Strong communication, presentation, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement abilities.
• Familiarity with Salesforce, SAP, Excel, and business analytics tools.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, IT, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 5 to 10 years of relevant experience within Cisco Collaboration, Data Center, product or vendor management, channel sales, or business development.
• Background in a Cisco VAD, Gold Partner, System Integrator, or enterprise technology firm is preferred.
• Relevant Cisco certifications such as CSE, CCNA, CCNP Collaboration, or CCNP Data Center are advantageous.
• MBA or higher studies in Business Management is a plus.

Additional Preferred Capabilities

• Experience managing Cisco Collaboration and Data Center portfolios in a Value-Added Distribution setting.
• In-depth knowledge of Cisco Partner and Incentive Programs including Partner Incentive Programs and Lifecycle Incentives.
• Hands-on experience supporting Managed Service Providers and partners delivering collaboration and data center managed services.
• Familiarity with emerging technologies like AI-driven collaboration, hybrid cloud, virtualization, hyperconverged infrastructure, VDI, and software-defined data centers.
• Proven ability to develop partner business plans, execute marketing strategies, and lead partner enablement activities.
• Strong analytical skills alongside strategic planning and cross-functional leadership capabilities.

Performance Metrics

• Achievement of revenue, gross profit, and profitability objectives.
• Expansion and performance of the Cisco Collaboration and Data Center offerings.
• Growth in software, subscription, and recurring revenues.
• Development in Enterprise Agreements, MSP, and MSLA businesses.
• Successful recruitment, certification, and enablement of new partners.
• Increased sales pipeline, forecast precision, and deal registrations.
• Effective execution of GTM plans, product launches, and marketing campaigns.
• Strong vendor relations and outcome of Quarterly Business Reviews.
• Partner satisfaction and growth in business development.
• Meeting Cisco business goals, incentive programs, and certification requirements.