Transparency and trust at work

Virginie Hollebecque, Vice President and EMEA leader, Ciena.

A diverse workforce brings new ideas, experiences, and different ways of thinking, which helps organisations grow and leverage innovation. There is still the need for a major shift of thinking and belief systems in the IT sector to close the diversity gap.

This starts with educating ourselves and looking at what we can do to ensure an inclusive and collaborative workforce. Ciena’s Early in Career programme that was implemented in EMEA will contribute to fostering diversity.

Virginie’s role at Ciena includes implementation of the go-to-market strategy, and developing and operating Ciena’s business in Europe, Middle East and Africa to help customers meet their IT & network challenges.

With nearly 20 years of experience in the telecommunications sector, she has acquired knowledge of how to develop high-performing, diverse and multicultural teams.


A dream work environment fosters talent and builds strong teams. Transparency is also paramount for a great work environment. Achieving full transparency within the organisation will cultivate innovative approaches, empowerment, and teamwork. Trust is equally important as it helps create positive work culture.


The most satisfying part of my role is the opportunity to develop a collaborative, multicultural, and multi-generational environment. I truly believe that building a team with high-performing, diverse perspectives drives greater employee satisfaction and ultimately results in a better experience for Ciena’s customers.

As I was taking on a new leadership role, I committed to investing more time in mentoring, coaching, and sponsoring people, including women. It is very rewarding to see people succeeding and happy in their roles, and hearing about our people from our customers is a testament to the value our teams bring to customers.


The pandemic has been an added challenge in adapting and evolving Ciena’s way of engaging with its customers, partners and communities. But Ciena has worked to ensure that its technology, innovations, and solutions are contributing to the good of their communities.


Virginie Hollebecque, Vice President and EMEA leader, Ciena.
Virginie Hollebecque, Vice President and EMEA leader, Ciena.