Sr. Director, Architectural Solutions

Coherent is seeking a leader in Architectural Solutions to drive external technical engagement and translate system-level requirements into company technology and architectural strategy.This role operates at the intersection of customers, ecosystem partners, and internal research and engineering teams. It engages deeply with leading customers in datacenter, communications, and industrial markets to shape technical direction and convert external insight into technology priorities and strategic opportunities for Coherent.The role also engages the broader ecosystem, including startups and partners, and represents Coherent in key industry forums.The position reports to the CTO.Key ResponsibilitiesCustomer Technical Engagement and Opportunity DevelopmentBuild and maintain deep technical relationships with key customers, including hyperscalers and system companiesEngage with customers' senior technical leaders to understand system architectures, requirements, and roadmapsPresent Coherent's corporate-wide technology roadmap to customers and identify new opportunities using technology as a driver for long-term engagementInternal Alignment and Technology DirectionTranslate customer architectures and ecosystem developments into clear technology requirements to inform Coherent technology and product roadmapsDevelop architectural responses to advanced customer product or technology inquiries that span multiple Business Groups or are outside of the responsibility of any Business Group (e.g. CPO)Synthesize external insights and communicate them across Business Groups and the CTO organizationEcosystem Engagement and Market InsightEngage with startups, partners, and universities and the broader ecosystem to monitor emerging technologies and develop partnershipsMaintain awareness of competitive dynamics and threats, and bring key insights into the company to inform technology and product roadmapsDevelop recommendations for partnership, investment, or acquisitionExternal Thought LeadershipRepresent Coherent at industry conferences, technical forums, and key customer engagementsDeliver clear presentations aligned with company strategyUse external venues to position Coherent as a technology leader and contribute to shaping industry directionQualificationsAdvanced degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related field (PhD preferred)15+ years of experience in photonics, datacenter, or communications systemsDeep understanding of system architectures and optical interconnect technologiesProven experience engaging directly with top-tier customers and influencing technical directionTrack record of generating opportunities through technical engagementStrong communication and external presenceWhat We Are Looking ForAbility to operate credibly at senior technical levels with customers and partnersStrong system-level thinking and architectural judgmentAbility to translate complex technical concepts into clear strategic directionClear and effective communicator with strong external presenceQuality and Environmental ResponsibilitiesDepending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.Culture CommitmentEnsure adherence to company's values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent Corp.:Integrity - Create an Environment of TrustCollaboration - Innovate Through the Sharing of IdeasAccountability - Own the Process and the OutcomeRespect - Recognize the Value in EveryoneEnthusiasm - Find a Sense of Purpose in WorkCoherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at talentacquisition@coherent.com.