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James Moylan
Chief Financial Officer at Ciena
Professional Background
James Moylan has dedicated over a decade of his career to Ciena, where he currently serves as the Chief Financial Officer. His tenure at Ciena has been marked by substantial growth in both revenue and profitability, as well as significant improvements to the company’s balance sheet. Moylan believes strongly in the future potential of Ciena, a recognition that has become even more evident as the company continues to expand in the rapidly evolving technological landscape. This robust growth is not just a testament to Ciena's resilience but also reflects Moylan’s strategic financial leadership.
Prior to joining Ciena, Moylan held several high-profile executive positions that honed his financial acumen and leadership skills. He served as Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Swett & Crawford, and also at PRG - Schultz International, Inc. His extensive experience includes a significant role at Georgia-Pacific Corporation, where he was the Executive Vice President overseeing Composite Panels, Distribution, and Administration.
Moylan’s journey in financial management began earlier in his career when he served as Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at SCI Systems, Inc. Here, he laid the groundwork for a stellar career focused on financial strategy and operational excellence. His leadership in these capacities has contributed greatly to the success stories of the organizations he has been a part of, always keeping focus on customer satisfaction and team performance.
Education and Achievements
James Moylan's educational background is impressive and contributes significantly to his expertise in business management and administration. He earned his Master's degree in Business Administration and Management from the prestigious Harvard Business School, where he honed his strategic thinking and leadership capabilities. The knowledge gained from such a renowned institution has undoubtedly played a critical role in shaping his effective management style and decision-making as a Chief Financial Officer.
In addition to his master's degree, Moylan holds a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology. This solid technical foundation has equipped him with the analytical and problem-solving skills essential for navigating complex business challenges, particularly in the competitive technology sector.
Achievements
James Moylan's achievements within the financial domain are noteworthy. Under his financial leadership, Ciena has seen a remarkable increase in both top-line revenue and bottom-line profitability. His focus on improving the balance sheet is indicative of his strategic foresight and dedication to the long-term success of the organization.
Moreover, Moylan's commitment to fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment has empowered Ciena’s salesforce and R&D innovators to excel. He emphasizes a culture centered around excellent customer service, both for external clients and internal teams, showcasing his belief that successful financial management goes hand-in-hand with employee engagement and customer satisfaction.
In his view, every day at work is an opportunity to connect with brilliant minds, tackle leading-edge technological solutions, and learn something new — all while solving business challenges that ultimately provide Ciena's customers with a competitive edge in their respective markets.
Away from his professional commitments, one of Moylan's most cherished achievements is his family, particularly the joy he finds in spending time with his grandchildren. This balance between professional dedication and personal fulfillment reflects a well-rounded individual who values both his career contributions and family ties.