At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead engineering teams and oversee software development for impactful health research.
- Company: Bennett Institute for Applied Data Science, a collaborative and innovative environment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible remote work options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a diverse team dedicated to equality and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in health research while leading cutting-edge software initiatives.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in software engineering and a passion for innovation.
The predicted salary is between 56623 - 65336 € per year.
We are seeking an experienced Head of Engineering to guide our software engineering processes and systems to meet the institute's goals and values, and lead the technical direction of our OpenSAFELY platform. This leadership role, reporting directly to the Chief Technical Officer, involves overseeing teams of up to 30 members, delegating ongoing responsibilities, and contributing to the overarching vision and managing staff performance. The role has a particular focus on practical and efficient software development and operations.
OpenSAFELY is a highly secure, modular, open-source data analysis platform created by the team at the Bennett Institute for Applied Data Science. The platform combines best practice from both academia and the open-source software community and has been deployed across the full electronic health records of the whole population of England.
The Bennett Institute for Applied Data Science is a mixed team of clinicians, software developers, programme managers, policy experts, and traditional academic researchers, all pooling skills and knowledge to create a modern, open, collaborative ecosystem for health research. We do this by shipping code, delivering papers, building capacity, and advocating for new ways of working.
The successful applicant will provide strategic leadership to the engineering group, ensuring that technical initiatives directly support the wider objectives and long-term vision of the Bennett Institute. By fostering a culture of practical innovation and continuous improvement, the successful candidate will mentor team leads and oversee the entire software development lifecycle, ensuring effective processes from planning to deployment, and enhancing the reliability and scalability of the institute's software systems.
You will be based at the Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, Radcliffe Primary Care Building, Woodstock Road, Oxford, OX2 6GG as your normal place of work, but you will be able to agree a pattern of regular remote working with your line manager. This post is offered full time, but part time (to a minimum of 0.8FTE) will be considered; it is fixed term for four years.
For further information or to discuss the post please contact Ben Butler-Cole. Applications for this vacancy are to be made online and you will be required to upload a CV and Supporting Statement as part of your online application. The Supporting Statement should include a cover letter and should also clearly describe how you meet each of the selection criteria listed in the job description. Please do not attach any manuscripts, papers, transcripts, mark sheets or certificates as these will not be considered as part of your application.
The closing date for applications is 12:00 noon on Monday 8th June 2026. Interviews are expected to be held during the week commencing 22nd June 2026. Salary range is £56,623 to £65,336 (with a discretionary range to £71,218 per annum). A market supplement may be payable up to a total maximum salary of £96,190.
Head of Engineering employer: University of Oxford
The Bennett Institute for Applied Data Science offers a dynamic and inclusive work environment in the heart of Oxford, where innovation meets collaboration. As a Head of Engineering, you will lead a talented team dedicated to advancing health research through cutting-edge technology, with ample opportunities for professional growth and development. Enjoy the flexibility of remote working arrangements and a commitment to equality and diversity, making this an exceptional place to build a meaningful career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Engineering
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the Bennett Institute and ask about their experiences. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into OpenSAFELY. Understand its architecture, strengths, and challenges. Being able to discuss this knowledgeably will show you're genuinely interested and ready to lead.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership style! Think of examples where you've successfully led teams or projects. Be ready to share how you foster innovation and improve processes—this is key for the Head of Engineering role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at the Bennett Institute.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Engineering
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Engineering role. Highlight your experience in leading software engineering teams and any relevant projects that align with our OpenSAFELY platform. We want to see how your skills match our needs!
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement:Your Supporting Statement is your chance to shine! Include a cover letter and clearly address how you meet each selection criterion from the job description. Be specific and show us why you're the perfect fit for our team.
Showcase Your Leadership Style:As a leadership role, we’re keen to understand your approach to mentoring and managing teams. Share examples of how you've fostered innovation and improved processes in your previous roles. We love practical examples!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application. Plus, it ensures you’re following the correct process and gives you access to all the resources you need to complete your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the OpenSAFELY platform and its significance in health research. Brush up on the latest trends in software engineering, especially in secure and modular systems. This will show that you’re not just a leader but also someone who understands the technical landscape.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your approach to leading teams, especially in a mixed environment like the Bennett Institute. Think about examples where you've successfully mentored team leads or improved processes. This is your chance to demonstrate how you foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
✨Align with Their Vision
Familiarise yourself with the institute's goals and values. Be ready to articulate how your strategic vision for the engineering group aligns with their long-term objectives. This shows that you’re not just looking for a job, but are genuinely interested in contributing to their mission.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the team dynamics, ongoing projects, and the challenges they face. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if this role is the right fit for you.
