Head of Software

ghd Great Abington, England, United KingdomIf your skills, experience, and qualifications match those in this job overview, do not delay your application.1 day ago Be among the first 25 applicantsThe Head of Software & Electronics is a senior leadership role responsible for the strategic direction, delivery, and continuous improvement of all software and electronics engineering activities across our product portfolio. This role leads multidisciplinary teams of software and electronics engineers, ensuring the successful integration, performance, and reliability of all embedded systems and digital solutions. The position reports directly to the CTO and is a key member of the R&D leadership team.LOCATIONThis role will be based in our Cambridge office.JOB ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIESLead, manage, and develop high‑performing teams of software and electronics engineers to deliver projects on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.Define and execute the software and electronics strategy in alignment with company objectives and the Innovation Master Plan (IMP).Oversee the architecture, development, and integration of embedded software, firmware, and electronics for all products.Ensure all software and electronics solutions meet compliance, functionality, reliability, cybersecurity, and safety requirements.Collaborate closely with the CTO and other senior leaders to drive innovation and technology roadmaps.Present project updates, technical reviews, and innovation proposals at Stage Gates and executive forums.Foster a culture of technical excellence, continuous learning, and proactive problem‑solving.Evaluate and implement new technologies, tools, and methodologies relevant to software and electronics engineering.Liaise with internal and external stakeholders, including suppliers, contract manufacturers, consultants, and cross‑functional teams (e.g., Mechanical, Operations, Quality, Project Management).Support the transfer of new products to manufacturing and assist in field issue analysis and resolution.Manage multiple priorities, mitigate risks, and ensure effective resource allocation across projects.Key SkillsDegree in Electronics Engineering, Computer Science, or related field; advanced degree preferred.10+ years of relevant technical experience, ideally in high‑volume consumer electronics or similar industries.Proven expertise in embedded software development (C/C++/Python, microcontrollers, RTOS, etc.) and electronics hardware design.Strong understanding of software engineering best practices, including version control, CI/CD, testing, and code quality.Familiarity with embedded machine learning techniques, would be desirable.Experience with hardware/firmware integration, electronic simulation/design, PCB review, EMC, and design for manufacturability.Familiarity with IoT, BLE, connectivity protocols, and cybersecurity for embedded systems.Demonstrated success in new product development and project management.Deep awareness of regulatory, cost, and manufacturing/assembly considerations.Key AttributesMinimum 5 years’ experience in line management and leadership of multidisciplinary engineering teams.Strategic thinker with strong decision‑making skills and the ability to deliver under tight deadlines.Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; able to explain complex technical concepts to non‑technical stakeholders.Proactive, engaged, and collaborative leader who inspires and develops talent.Strong organizational skills and ability to manage competing priorities.ValuesCollaborative – We work together to create the extraordinary.Creative – We foster creativity & excellence to create value for our brands and business.Courageous – We are agile, entrepreneurial & we own our future.Connected – We stay connected and ensure we are always consumer first.Committed – We are responsible for our impact on other & the planet.Notice to Employment businesses/ Agencies.ghd does not accept referrals from employment businesses and/or employment agencies in respect of the vacancies posted on this site. xpwpeyx ghd shall therefore not be liable for any fees arising from such actions or any fees arising from any referrals.Seniority LevelMid‑Senior levelEmployment TypeFull‑timeJob FunctionResearch, Manufacturing, and EngineeringIndustriesAppliances, Electrical, and Electronics Manufacturing, Electrical Equipment Manufacturing, and Manufacturing