Head of Software | Cambridge (hybrid)
Read the overview of this opportunity to understand what skills, including and relevant soft skills and software package proficiencies, are required.
This role owns the whole software function at a long-established Cambridge hardware business. Its products sit inside mission-critical control rooms around the world, where failure isn't an option. The company is now employee owned and is building its next generation of networked video and connectivity products. Software is central to that.
The role
You'll own every line of software the business ships. That covers embedded Linux on FPGA SoCs, application software on x86 Linux, build systems, CI/CD and test. Software managers and team leads across UK and offshore teams will report into you. You'll sit on the Engineering Management team and report to the VP Engineering.
This isn't a caretaker role. You'll have a clear mandate to review how things are done, challenge assumptions and improve delivery speed and predictability. You'll also need to keep the reliability the products are known for. Part of the job is bringing several established teams together into one group with shared ways of working. You'll also drive a platform approach so new products reach market faster.
What you'll be doing
Setting software strategy aligned with product, platform and hardware roadmaps
Leading and developing managers, leads and engineers across UK and offshore teams
Providing technical governance across embedded, application, build infrastructure and CI/CD
Reviewing architecture, design and code, and stopping or redirecting work when it isn't heading the right way
Representing software with hardware, firmware, product, operations and the executive team
Retaining, growing and, where needed, hiring strong engineers and leadersThe technical environment
Embedded Linux on Xilinx and Intel SoCs, often resource constrained, with on-device UIs
x86 Linux application software, some of it tightly coupled to drivers and hardware
C and C++, with growing use of Rust and Go
Cross-compiled, multi-product build systems, with Jenkins, Gerrit and Bitbucket
Long-lifecycle, high-reliability products with controlled release processesWhat you'll bring
A strong background in embedded and hardware-adjacent software
A track record of leading and building high-performing teams, ideally across sites
Evidence of improving delivery speed, predictability and quality at scale
Enough technical depth to challenge senior engineers credibly. xgikmsk You won't code every day, but you'll still be close to the detail.
The emotional intelligence to lead change across established teams without losing themWhat's on offer
25 days' holiday, a strong pension and optional private healthcare
Cycle to work scheme and free on-site parking
Trust-based hybrid working
A real stake in an employee-owned business...
Head of Software in Hardwick employer: Pure Resourcing Solutions Limited
Join a leading manufacturer in the construction materials sector that prioritises employee wellbeing and development. With a strong commitment to training, including full Microsoft certification support, and a culture that values people, you will thrive in an environment recognised for its Investors in People Platinum status. This role not only offers competitive benefits but also the chance to work on innovative digital solutions in a collaborative team setting in Ipswich.
Contact Details:
Pure Resourcing Solutions Limited Recruitment Team
