Cisco

Senior Director, Hyperscaler Systems Architecture

Cisco$284K — $390K *
Information Technology
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent experience (preferably in networking hardware)
  • 10+ years in engineering, solutions architecture, or product management (ideally in networking silicon)
  • Demonstrated experience in Service Provider Networking, Data Center Networking, or with Hyperscalers.
  • Strong technical breadth in high-speed optics, coherent pluggables, and network system design.
  • Proven ability to influence senior leadership and manage high-stakes performance situations.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the definition and strategy of product portfolios for large-scale web customers.
  • Evaluate future technology generations for Cisco investment in Silicon and Optics.
  • Shape and oversee system roadmaps for various architecture types.
  • Ensure that RFx responses align with customer commitments and expected performance.
  • Drive functional simulations and performance analysis using industry-standard tools.
  • Engage with Hyperscaler customers to understand technology needs and value propositions.
  • Mentor product management and technical teams to enhance their expertise.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) plan with company matching contributions
  • Paid parental leave and short/long-term disability coverage
  • 16 days of paid vacation annually for non-exempt employees
  • Flexible vacation for exempt employees with no defined limit
  • Paid time off for personal wellness and optional volunteer days.
Full Job Description
The application window is expected to close on: 08/21/2026
Job posting may be removed earlier if the position is filled or if a sufficient number of applications are received.

What You'll Do:

As a Senior Director for the Hyperscaler Systems Architecture, you will lead the definition, strategy, and shaping of the portfolio and solutions tailored for large-scale web customers. You will collaborate closely with customers, sales, engineering, and marketing teams to design products that enable business transformation. At Cisco, product and architecture leaders are empowered and trusted to be the voice of the customer.

In this role, you will establish strategic roadmaps, drive priorities to meet objectives, and explore new horizons in technology. You will also serve as a technical advisor to leadership and influence industry standards.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Portfolio Strategy: Evaluate and influence the technology strategy for Silicon, Optics, and Interconnects technologies with focus on the Hyperscaler segment
  • Roadmap Planning: Shape the systems roadmap for scale-out, scale-up, and scale-across systems.
  • Technical Oversight: Review and approve RFx responses (RFI, RFP, RFQ) to ensure customer commitments, architectural claims, performance numbers, and margin assumptions are aligned.
  • Modern Tooling: Drive hands-on simulations for functional and performance analysis using modern industry tooling.
  • Customer Engagement: Engage with Hyperscaler customers on technology, roadmap positioning, and value propositions.
  • Partner with technology providers for assessments and project collaboration.
  • Participate in industry events to drive product messaging and strategy.
  • Cross-functional Alignment: Drive alignment across various internal stakeholders including Silicon, HW, Optics, and software teams to ensure business success.
  • Leadership & Mentorship: Mentor and coach the product management, technical marketing, and engineering communities to strengthen technical expertise.


Desired Qualities:
  • Webscale Experience: Previous experience working with or for Webscale companies in architecture, engineering, or validation.
  • Technical Expertise: Advanced knowledge in areas as high-speed optics, coherent pluggables, silicon-design principles, liquid cooling, high-speed SerDes, interconnects, and system design.
  • Architectural Fluency: A solid background in network system design and the trade-offs involved in defining new products.
  • High-Stakes Performance: Ability to lead and perform under pressure in front of customers and internal R&D teams.
  • Influence: A strong track record of growing and influencing others across all levels of senior leadership.


Minimum Qualifications:
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent work experience (preferably in networking hardware).
  • Experience: 10+ years in engineering, solutions architecture, or product management (preferably in networking silicon).
  • Domain Knowledge: Demonstrable experience in Service Provider Networking, Data Center Networking, or directly with Hyperscalers.


Preferred Qualifications:
  • Advanced Degree: Master's degree or PhD is preferred.
  • Full-Stack Fluency: Experience with the combination of ASIC, Hardware (Systems and Optics), and the software stack.
  • Matrix Leadership: Prior experience leading cross-functional teams as a product or engineering leader within a fast-paced matrix organization.
  • Customer Insight: Deep understanding of networking customer requirements and usage models

About Cisco

Cisco Careers

Join the vibrant team at Cisco, a global leader in networking and cybersecurity solutions, where innovation and leadership thrive. Cisco offers a plethora of job opportunities that cater to a range of skills and experiences, making it an ideal place for both seasoned professionals and those seeking an internship to jumpstart their career. Work You’ll Do At Cisco, you’ll be part of a culture that values diversity, leadership, and professional growth. Engage in work that matters with a team that combines technology, creativity, and the power of human connection to redefine networking. Cisco’s commitment to innovation isn’t just about technology, but also about transforming the way we work and collaborate. Cisco’s employment philosophy supports career advancement and nurtures a leadership pipeline that is equipped with diversity training and opportunities for growth. Whether you’re applying your skills to drive our latest innovations or using our vast networking capabilities to solve complex problems, at Cisco, every role is impactful. Join Our Dynamic Team Explore job opportunities in areas ranging from engineering to marketing, sales to cybersecurity. Cisco is hiring individuals who are passionate, curious, and ready to drive change. Positions at Cisco offer competitive benefits, a supportive culture, and the chance to work with cutting-edge technology. Internship Programs Kickstart your career with a Cisco internship. Gain invaluable industry experience, enhance your resume, and build professional networks that last a lifetime. Our internships provide hands-on experience and the chance to work on projects that matter. Leadership and Development Cisco is committed to fostering leadership skills and providing employees with the training needed to succeed. Our leadership programs help you develop new skills, manage teams effectively, and lead with confidence. Cisco’s commitment to professional development ensures that your career path is as dynamic as our technologies. Benefits and Culture Cisco understands the importance of a balanced life. Our benefits package is designed to ensure that our team members are healthy, happy, and secure. At Cisco, you’ll find a supportive culture that encourages open communication, teamwork, and mutual respect. Stay Connected Join Cisco’s Talent Network Stay informed about new positions that match your skills and interests. At Cisco, we value the curiosity and unique perspectives of our team members. Subscribe to receive personalized job alerts and insider tips directly from our hiring managers. Explore Cisco Jobs Ready to advance your career at Cisco? Search open positions, prepare your resume, and get ready for an interview that could lead to your next big opportunity. At Cisco, we’re not just filling positions—we’re investing in leaders. Keep Up to Date Stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. READ CAREERS BLOG Job Alert Emails Customize your subscription to receive job alerts, the latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding career opportunities that await you at Cisco.
Learn more about Cisco
Size
79,500 employees
Market Cap
$194.5 billion
Industry
Net Income
$10.1 billion
Founded
2014
5 Year Trend
+1.4%
Revenue
$48 billion
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