At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead technology strategy and innovation, driving AI adoption and engineering excellence.
- Company: Join Critical Software, a global leader in mission-critical software engineering.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hybrid work, and access to a powerful network.
- Other info: Be part of a culture that values creativity, collaboration, and continuous learning.
- Why this job: Shape the future of technology while making a positive impact on the world.
- Qualifications: 15+ years in tech leadership with expertise in software engineering and AI.
The predicted salary is between 120000 - 150000 £ per year.
We're seeking a visionary and technically exceptional Chief Technology Officer (CTO) to lead Critical Software's technology strategy and innovation agenda as we enter an exciting new phase of growth and transformation. This role will be instrumental in shaping our technological future, driving AI adoption across the organization, and ensuring we maintain our position at the forefront of mission and business-critical software engineering.
Critical Software operates across various business verticals and geographies, including Portugal, Germany, UK and the US. We have built a solid reputation for delivering highly reliable solutions supporting our customers in verticals such as aerospace, transportation, energy, medical and finance. Our customers include NASA, ESA, Airbus, Alstom, and BMW, just to mention a few.
Joining Critical means embracing our purpose of building a better and safer world and living our core values. You'll lead and be supported by a world‐class engineering community — 1,400+ at Critical Software and over 4,000 across the wider group — within a culture that balances ambition with genuine care. As a proud Benefit Corporation, we are legally committed to considering our impact on people and the planet in every decision we make.
Key Responsibilities- Technology Leadership & Strategy
- Define and lead the company's global technology vision, strategy, and roadmap, including the AI transformation and the development of AI as a core competency.
- Establish and maintain engineering standards, best practices, and technology frameworks that ensure quality, security, scalability, and sustainability.
- Drive technology innovation across all business clusters, fostering coordination, knowledge sharing, and alignment with strategic objectives.
- Innovation & Ecosystem Engagement
- Lead technology scouting and research to identify emerging technologies that create strategic differentiation and inform investment opportunities in partnership with Critical Ventures.
- Champion a culture of creativity and innovation, experimentation, and continuous learning across the engineering organisation.
- Serve as Critical Software's technology ambassador, engaging with strategic customers, partners, startups, research institutions, and representing the company at industry conferences, forums, and innovation events.
- Engineering Excellence & Collaboration
- Champion engineering ingenuity and technical excellence across all teams, driving the adoption of modern development practices, tools, and methodologies.
- Ensure all products and services meet the highest standards of safety, security, reliability, and quality.
- Serve as a key member of the Management Board and collaborate closely with the COO, CRO, CPO, and CISO to align technology strategies with company-wide objectives.
- Experience & Background
- 15+ years in technology leadership roles, including at least 5 years at C‐level or equivalent.
- Proven experience leading technology strategy and innovation in complex, international organisations.
- Deep expertise in software engineering, architecture, and multi‐domain technology environments.
- Background in B2B technology services, professional services, or mission‐critical software development.
- Demonstrated success driving large‐scale digital transformation and AI adoption.
- Technical Excellence
- Exceptional depth and breadth of technical expertise across software engineering, AI/ML (including generative AI), cloud architectures, and emerging technologies.
- Strong understanding of technology trends in sectors such as aerospace, transportation, energy, medical devices, or financial services.
- Practical experience applying AI and machine‐learning technologies in real‐world solutions.
- Familiarity with safety and security standards for critical systems is highly valued.
- Leadership & Communication
- Strategic thinker able to translate business objectives into clear, actionable technology strategies.
- Proven ability to lead, inspire, and develop high‐performing technical teams.
- Exceptional English communication skills (native or fluent).
- Entrepreneurial mindset with a strong bias for action and results.
- Passionate about technology, curiosity‐driven, and committed to continuous learning.
- An authentic, bold, values‐driven leader who inspires trust, elevates others, and embraces bold, disruptive thinking when it leads to meaningful progress.
- Deeply aligned with our mission of building a better and safer world.
- A pivotal role shaping the technological future of a leading global tech company, with a seat on the Management Board and direct influence on strategy.
- Access to a powerful network of customers, partners, and ecosystem companies.
- A culture that champions engineering excellence, innovation, and continuous learning.
- Competitive compensation and benefits, plus a flexible hybrid working model.
We look forward to learning how you will strengthen Critical Software's technological impact while upholding our commitment to safety, quality, and innovation.
Chief Technology Officer (CTO) in Southampton employer: Valsoft Corporation
Critical Software is an exceptional employer that offers a unique opportunity for a Chief Technology Officer to lead transformative technology strategies in a supportive and innovative environment. With a commitment to engineering excellence and a culture that values ambition alongside genuine care, employees benefit from competitive compensation, flexible hybrid working models, and the chance to work on mission-critical projects with renowned clients like NASA and Airbus. As a proud Benefit Corporation, we prioritise our impact on people and the planet, making this a meaningful place to advance your career while contributing to a better and safer world.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Technology Officer (CTO) in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry leaders, attend tech meetups, and engage in online forums. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that CTO role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio or a personal website where you can highlight your past projects, especially those involving AI and software engineering. This will give potential employers a taste of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your leadership skills and technical knowledge. Be ready to discuss how you've driven innovation and transformation in previous roles. We want to see your passion for technology shine through!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our mission to build a better and safer world.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Technology Officer (CTO) in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Vision:When applying for the CTO role, make sure to articulate your vision for technology and innovation. We want to see how you plan to drive AI adoption and shape our tech strategy, so don’t hold back on your ideas!
Highlight Your Experience:We’re looking for someone with a solid background in technology leadership. Be sure to showcase your 15+ years of experience, especially any C-level roles or large-scale digital transformations you've led. This is your chance to shine!
Be Authentic:We value authenticity and passion for technology. Let your personality come through in your application. Share what drives you and how your values align with ours at Critical Software. We want to know the real you!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Valsoft Corporation
✨Research the Company and Its Vision
Before your interview, dive deep into Critical Software's mission and values. Understand their focus on AI adoption and how they position themselves in various sectors like aerospace and finance. This knowledge will help you align your answers with their goals and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
As a CTO candidate, it's crucial to highlight your extensive experience in technology leadership and innovation. Prepare specific examples of how you've driven digital transformation and AI initiatives in previous roles. Be ready to discuss your technical depth in software engineering and emerging technologies, as this will be key to impressing the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Leadership and Communication Skills
Critical Software is looking for a leader who can inspire and develop high-performing teams. Be prepared to share instances where you've successfully led diverse teams and translated complex technical concepts into actionable strategies. Your ability to communicate effectively will be vital in showcasing your fit for the role.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Continuous Learning
In a rapidly evolving tech landscape, showing that you're passionate about continuous learning is essential. Discuss any recent courses, certifications, or projects that reflect your curiosity and commitment to staying ahead of technology trends. This will resonate well with their culture of innovation and creativity.
