VP of Hardware

About Us At Versa Networks, we're revolutionizing the way businesses connect, secure, and optimize their networks. Our mission is to secure anywhere, anytime access to anything. As a leader in Secure SD-WAN, SSE (Secure Service Edge), SASE (Secure Access Service Edge) and Next-generation Managed Services, we are empowering organizations across the globe to transform their IT infrastructure for the modern cloud era. Our innovative products enable enterprises to deliver a seamless, scalable, and secure digital experience, no matter where their users, devices, or applications are located. Founded by industry veterans and backed by premier venture capital firms, Versa is a market leader driving innovation and growth as it positions itself for a future IPO. We believe in fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and customer success. Our team is comprised of passionate, forward-thinking professionals dedicated to driving the future of networking technology. We encourage creativity, offer opportunities for growth, and provide a dynamic environment where our people can thrive and make an impact. At Versa Networks, we don't just build products - we build relationships, elevate businesses, and shape the digital future. Join us and be part of a fast-paced, cutting-edge company that's making a real difference in how the world connects and communicates. Job Summary We are seeking a strategic and execution-oriented Vice President of Hardware to lead our hardware business end-to-end. In this role, you will own the strategy, product, supply chain operations & distribution, and execution of the Company's hardware appliance portfolio. The VP of Hardware will partner with Product Management, Engineering, Sales, Finance, and Operations to define and execute our hardware strategy and ensure that we have the right products, partners, economics, and operational infrastructure to support the growth of the business. The VP of Hardware will work with our key hardware partners, including ODMs and master distributors, and will ensure alignment between our product strategy, customer demand, and operational execution. The ideal candidate combines strong technical and product judgment with deep experience in hardware supply chains, distribution, forecasting, pricing, and customer engagement. What You'll Do: Hardware appliance strategy and product line managementOwn the hardware appliance strategy and roadmap, and align with product requirements, customer needs, and business goalsLead build-versus-partner decisions. Establish a clear business case and complete technical, commercial, and operational evaluation before committing to a new applianceOwn the hardware product line across its lifecycle, including portfolio planning, launches, transitions, and end-of-life decisionsLead appliance costing and pricing strategy, balancing competitiveness, margin, and long-term viabilityStructure and approve hardware pricing for strategic or exceptional deals within the company's approval frameworkHardware programs and certificationsEnsure new hardware programs are delivered against agreed specifications, quality standards, budgets, and launch timelinesOversee hardware certifications required for target products, markets, and customersIdentify program risks early and drive decisions across internal teams and external partners to keep launches on trackSupply chain and ODM partnershipsDefine and execute the ODM strategy, including partner selection, performance management, and consolidation where it improves scale and efficiencyBuild sufficient volume with strategic ODM partners to strengthen pricing, capacity access, quality, and executionOwn senior-level engagement with ODMs such as Jabil, Advantech, Accton, and other relevant partnersDrive improvements in supply continuity, lead times, inventory exposure, and total landed costForecasting distribution and operationsWork with Sales and other stakeholders to establish a regular internal and external demand forecast for the appliance portfolioLead engagement with master distributors and develop a stocking and warehousing strategy that supports customer delivery commitmentsPartner with Sales on distributor relationships and define appropriate inventory buffers based on demand, lead times, and service expectationsMonitor supply, inventory, and fulfillment performance and take corrective action when demand or partner performance changesSales and customer engagementSupport Sales in customer engagements, both proactively for strategic opportunities and reactively when hardware questions or issues ariseProvide clear guidance on appliance selection, availability, lifecycle, and commercial optionsBring customer and field feedback into hardware roadmap, pricing, and partner decisions Requirements Qualifications 15+ years of experience in hardware, networking, infrastructure, computing, telecommunications, or a related technology industrySignificant leadership experience in hardware product management, appliance engineering, supply chain, or a related technology businessProven experience taking hardware appliances from business case through development, certification, production, and commercial launchExperience leading commercial negotiations and managing senior relationships with manufacturing partnersAbility to make sound trade-offs across customer requirements, technical capability, cost, margin, supply risk, and time to marketStrong cross-functional leadership and communication skills, with the ability to work directly with executives, sales teams, partners, and customersDemonstrated experience leading a hardware business, product line, or hardware organization from strategy through executionStrong understanding of hardware product development, engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and operationsStrong experience working with ODMs, contract manufacturers, distributors, and hardware ecosystem partnersExperience with partners such as Jabil, Flex, Foxconn, Advantech, Accton, or comparable organizations is highly valuableExperience developing and managing hardware product roadmaps and making build-vs.-partner decisionsStrong understanding of hardware economics, including BOM costs, margins, pricing, inventory, and working capitalExperience with demand forecasting, capacity planning, inventory management, and supply-chain riskExperience managing strategic distributor and channel relationshipsDemonstrated ability to work effectively with Sales and directly with customersStrong commercial judgment and ability to evaluate business cases and partner proposalsExcellent cross-functional leadership and communication skillsAbility to operate effectively at both the strategic and operational levels-moving from long-term strategy to detailed execution when required Location: Santa Clara, CA Applicants must be authorized to work in the US The pay range for this position at commencement of employment in California, Washington, or New York City is expected in the range of $275,000 to $350,000. A candidate's specific pay within this range will depend on a variety of factors, including job-related skills, training, location, experience, relevant education, certifications, and other business and organizational needs. Benefits Why Versa? At Versa Networks, we believe in taking care of our people - both professionally and personally. We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being, growth, and work-life balance of our employees. When you join our team, you can expect: Competitive Salary & Incentives: We offer a competitive compensation package with and pre-IPO equity to reward your hard work and dedicationHealth & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans to ensure you and your family stay healthy and covered. Paid Time Off (PTO): Enjoy a generous PTO policy that includes vacation days, sick leave, and paid holidays to recharge and take care of personal mattersFlexible Work Environment: We understand the importance of work-life balance. Enjoy the flexibility of remote work, and hybrid option to create the work schedule that works best for youProfessional Development: We believe in continuous learning. Access to training, certifications, and educational resources to help you grow in your career and stay ahead of industry trendsEmployee Recognition: We celebrate achievements both big and small, with regular recognition programs and awards that highlight your contributions to our collective successCollaborative Culture: Be part of a dynamic, inclusive, and supportive team where innovation and collaboration are at the heart of everything we doParental Leave: Generous parental leave policies to support you during life's important moments At Versa Networks, our benefits are designed to help you thrive both inside and outside the office. Join us and experience a rewarding, fulfilling career in a supportive environment that values your health, happiness, and success. Versa Networks is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.