At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic engineering team through a major tech transformation.
- Company: Join a large organisation at the forefront of technology change.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, hybrid work model, and potential for contract extension.
- Other info: Opportunity to work on exciting projects like AI and cloud transformation.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact during a critical period of change and innovation.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in software engineering and experience in complex environments.
We are partnering with a large and complex organisation undergoing a significant technology transformation to appoint an experienced Interim Head of Software Engineering. This is a high-impact interim leadership opportunity for a senior engineering professional who can provide stability, technical direction, and operational leadership during a critical period of change and delivery.
Rather than a traditional “own everything” permanent leadership role, this assignment is focused on ensuring the engineering function continues to operate effectively, enabling strategic transformation programmes, and providing strong technical leadership across a broad portfolio of initiatives.
The Role
You will lead an established engineering function of approximately 20 FTEs spanning:
- Software Engineering & Development
- Integration Services
- BI & Analytics
- Engineering Governance & Project Assurance
Working closely with senior stakeholders across technology and the wider business, you will balance day-to-day engineering leadership with strategic technical input into a range of transformation initiatives. This is a visible leadership role requiring a pragmatic, delivery-focused individual who is comfortable operating within complex enterprise environments and navigating organisational change.
Key Transformation Programmes
Current initiatives include:
- Enterprise AI and automation programmes
- Multi-cloud transformation across AWS and Azure
- Cloud migration and modernisation activity
- Centralised data platform and repository initiatives
- Technology cost optimisation programmes
- Introduction of new enterprise products and systems
What We’re Looking For
We are interested in speaking with candidates who can demonstrate:
- A strong background in software engineering leadership
- Experience operating within large, complex enterprise organisations
- Proven capability leading and stabilising engineering teams in an interim capacity
- Credibility providing technical oversight and engineering direction across programmes and projects
- Strong stakeholder engagement, governance, and communication skills
- Exposure to integration-led environments (highly desirable)
- Previous Higher Education sector experience strongly preferred
Contract Details
Initial 3-month contract with strong likelihood of extension to 6 months. Inside IR35. Hybrid working model with a London-based environment. Interview process commencing shortly. Start date required by mid-June at the latest.
Head of Software Engineering in London employer: TRIA
As an Interim Head of Software Engineering, you will join a large and complex organisation that values innovation and transformation, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and technical excellence. With a focus on employee growth, this role provides the opportunity to lead a talented engineering team through significant change while enjoying the flexibility of a hybrid working model in London. The company is committed to supporting its employees with competitive compensation and a strong emphasis on professional development, making it an excellent employer for those seeking impactful and rewarding leadership roles.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Software Engineering in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who might know about opportunities in software engineering leadership. A personal recommendation can make all the difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and leadership skills. Be ready to discuss how you've stabilised teams and led transformations in previous roles. We want you to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your adaptability! Highlight experiences where you've navigated complex environments and managed change effectively. This is key for roles like the Interim Head of Software Engineering.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Software Engineering in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Head of Software Engineering. Highlight your experience in leading engineering teams and any relevant transformation projects you've been part of. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this interim role. Share specific examples of how you've provided technical direction and stability in previous positions, especially in complex environments.
Showcase Your Leadership Style:In your application, let us know about your leadership approach. We’re looking for someone who can balance day-to-day operations with strategic input, so share how you’ve successfully navigated change and engaged stakeholders in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step!
How to prepare for a job interview at TRIA
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
As a candidate for the Head of Software Engineering, you need to be well-versed in the latest technologies and trends, especially around AI, cloud migration, and integration services. Brush up on your knowledge of AWS and Azure, and be ready to discuss how you've led teams through similar transformations.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role requires strong leadership skills, so think about how you can demonstrate your ability to stabilise and guide engineering teams. Prepare examples of how you've successfully navigated change in complex environments and how you’ve engaged with stakeholders to drive projects forward.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific challenges related to engineering governance or project assurance. Think through potential scenarios and articulate your thought process clearly, showing your strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Strong communication skills are essential for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts on technical direction and operational leadership. Be prepared to explain complex concepts in a way that’s accessible to non-technical stakeholders, showcasing your ability to bridge the gap between tech and business.
