Keri Gilder

gilder_keriI am the VP & General Manager EMEA for Ciena Communications.  I am responsible for the strategy and development of the region.  Prior to running EMEA, I held multiple positions in the Telecommunications industry from a Systems Engineer to Global Accounts sales leader.  Outside of my day job, I have been married to my husband for 20+ years and have a daughter in middle school and a son in upper school.

“Prior to moving to the UK, I participated in the Denver CASA program in the United States, this program introduced me to the needs of children in the foster care system and helped me understand what a significant difference an advocate can make in the lives of these disadvantaged children.  Helen Pitcher introduced me to KidsOut about a year ago and I realized that the charity has a similar influence by creating a positive adventure for the children to look forward to.  I am a technologist by trade and by heart and the science tells the story – a day can truly make a difference in the overall life of these children and I am proud to be an Ambassador and support KidsOut!”