Embedded Software Manager in Eastbourne

Location: Eastbourne + Hybrid Working from Home

Salary: Up to £80,000 + 15% Bonus

The Role

KO2's client is seeking an experienced Software Manager to take ownership of the software engineering function within a business developing control and drive technology solutions. You will lead the design, development and integration of primarily embedded software, shaping the engineering delivery strategy and setting the standard for technical excellence across the team. Reporting to the Engineering Manager, this is a genuine leadership opportunity: as part of standing up the role, you'll scope and size the function itself, with between 5 and 15 engineers expected to report to you as it matures. This is a role for someone who can operate at both a strategic and technical level - comfortable setting engineering direction and capability frameworks, while remaining close enough to the detail to act as the software authority when it matters.

Main Responsibilities

• Oversee the design and development of embedded software and HMIs for vacuum equipment, driving innovation and efficiency in scientific and semiconductor applications.
• Guide and manage the overall capability of the software engineering function, ensuring alignment with industry standards and company objectives.
• Define engineering strategies, ensuring robust hardware/software integration to optimise performance and reliability.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including project management, hardware engineering, test engineering and manufacturing to ensure seamless project execution.
• Ensure compliance with relevant industry regulations, safety standards and emerging technologies.
• Drive continuous improvement, leveraging new methodologies to enhance engineering efficiency and product quality.
• Act as the software engineering authority, providing expertise in architecture, coding (C++, C#, Java, Python etc.) and delivery methodologies including Agile, Spiral and V-model lifecycles.

Scope of the Role

• Direct communication with functional leads, the software team lead and the Engineering Manager, with the ability to engage senior group stakeholders and communicate externally with suppliers and customers.
• A strategic remit: planning resource allocation, setting priorities with the project management team, establishing and maintaining capability frameworks, and ensuring training needs are planned and delivered.
• Responsibility for building out the function, with 5 to 15 direct reports expected as the team is scoped and sized.

What You'll Need

• At least 5 years managing software and IT teams or complex projects, with a proven track record of delivering scalable, user-centric software solutions.
• Experience coaching and developing engineering talent to foster growth and innovation within teams.
• Strong capabilities in stakeholder engagement, process optimisation and leading organisational change initiatives.
• A robust background in complex enterprise environments with broad exposure to diverse business functions and operational challenges.
• A deep understanding of integrating business strategy with software delivery, ensuring projects align with long-term objectives.
• Proficiency in vendor management, budgeting, resource planning and risk assessment.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, able to bridge technical and business teams and drive accountability and continuous improvement.

The Package

Up to £80,000 basic salary, 15% bonus, Hybrid working available.

Apply

If you're a technically credible software leader looking to build and shape a function from the ground up, we'd like to hear from you. Apply today with an up-to-date CV for immediate consideration, or contact KO2 Embedded Recruitment Solutions in confidence - specialists in electronics and embedded engineering.