Head of Software Engineering
Head of Software Engineering

Head of Software Engineering

Sheffield Full-Time 120000 - 180000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead and inspire engineering teams while aligning with product and leadership.
  • Company: Join a high-growth AI company focused on culture and innovation.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, equity options, and a flexible work environment.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact by building sustainable teams and fostering creativity.
  • Qualifications: Experience leading large engineering teams and a people-first approach required.
  • Other info: This role is pivotal for shaping the future of our engineering culture.

The predicted salary is between 120000 - 180000 £ per year.

A high-growth AI company is entering its next chapter and we’re looking for a Head of Engineering who knows how to build more than just systems. This is about laying the foundations for growth, not just in code, but in culture, structure, and people.

Right now, the team is led by brilliant technical minds but they need a servant leader to steer the ship. Someone who knows what good looks like when it comes to process, progression, and engineering excellence. Someone who can inspire and empower, not micromanage. Someone who knows how to reduce burnout by building healthy, sustainable teams with shared purpose.

Your impact:

  • Introduce progression frameworks and clear career paths
  • Align engineering with product and leadership teams to create a shared north star
  • Bring energy and motivation back into the dev squads
  • Build the right processes to support delivery at scale without killing creativity
  • Champion servant leadership, mentorship, and team health
  • Help us go from great to world-class

You’ll inherit a strong engineering foundation, with people who care deeply about the mission and now, they’re ready for someone who brings a steady hand, big vision, and experience building fast-scaling teams the right way.

What you bring:

  • You’ve led engineering teams of 30+ and helped shape structure through scale
  • You’re a people-first leader, not a top-down manager
  • You’ve aligned engineering with product and ops in a high-growth environment
  • You know how to get buy-in, build trust, and energise people
  • We’re looking for foundational impact, not just another hire

Apply to this advert to arrange a call.

Head of Software Engineering employer: Your Next Hire

Join a high-growth AI company in Central London, where we prioritise a people-first culture and offer competitive salaries alongside equity options. As the Head of Software Engineering, you'll have the opportunity to shape not only the technical landscape but also the team's growth and well-being, fostering an environment that champions servant leadership and innovation. With a strong foundation already in place, this role promises meaningful impact and the chance to lead a passionate team towards world-class excellence.
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Contact Detail:

Your Next Hire Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of Software Engineering

✨Tip Number 1

Network with professionals in the AI and engineering sectors. Attend industry meetups or conferences where you can connect with current leaders and learn about their experiences. This can give you insights into what companies like us are looking for in a Head of Software Engineering.

✨Tip Number 2

Showcase your leadership style through social media or professional platforms like LinkedIn. Share articles, insights, or your thoughts on servant leadership and team health. This not only demonstrates your expertise but also aligns with our values at StudySmarter.

✨Tip Number 3

Engage with our company culture by following us on social media and participating in discussions. Understanding our mission and values will help you tailor your approach when discussing how you can contribute to our growth and team dynamics.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've built sustainable teams and aligned engineering with product in previous roles. We value real-world experience, so having concrete stories ready will help you stand out during conversations.

We think you need these skills to ace Head of Software Engineering

Leadership Skills
Servant Leadership
Team Building
Process Improvement
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Mentorship
Strategic Vision
Change Management
Conflict Resolution
Agile Methodologies
Performance Management
Communication Skills
Emotional Intelligence
Burnout Prevention Strategies
Career Development Frameworks

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Take time to thoroughly read the job description for the Head of Software Engineering position. Understand the key responsibilities and the qualities they are looking for in a candidate, such as servant leadership and experience with high-growth teams.

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience that aligns with the job requirements. Focus on your leadership roles, particularly those involving engineering teams of 30+ and any experience you have in building sustainable team cultures.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only showcases your technical skills but also emphasises your people-first leadership style. Share specific examples of how you've inspired teams and aligned engineering with product goals in previous roles.

Showcase Your Vision: In your application, convey your vision for the role. Discuss how you would introduce progression frameworks, build healthy teams, and champion servant leadership. This will demonstrate your understanding of the company's needs and your readiness to make a foundational impact.

How to prepare for a job interview at Your Next Hire

✨Showcase Your Leadership Style

As a candidate for the Head of Software Engineering, it's crucial to demonstrate your people-first leadership approach. Share specific examples of how you've empowered teams and fostered a culture of collaboration and trust in previous roles.

✨Align with Company Values

Research the company's mission and values thoroughly. During the interview, articulate how your vision aligns with theirs, especially regarding building sustainable teams and reducing burnout. This will show that you are not just a technical fit but also a cultural one.

✨Discuss Process Improvement

Be prepared to discuss your experience in introducing progression frameworks and clear career paths. Highlight any successful processes you've implemented that supported delivery at scale while maintaining creativity, as this is a key aspect of the role.

✨Prepare for Scenario Questions

Expect scenario-based questions that assess your ability to handle challenges in a high-growth environment. Think about past experiences where you aligned engineering with product and ops, and be ready to explain your thought process and outcomes.

Head of Software Engineering
Your Next Hire
Y
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