Director of Software Engineering

We are seeking an experienced Director of Software Engineering to lead our software, data, and digital engineering capability across the organisation. The role will be responsible for overseeing the design and development of software/control systems for commercial Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), ensuring alignment with the company’s technical and business objectives. Defining and executing technology strategy, building and leading a high-performing Software engineering team, and delivering scalable, secure software, data, and AI solutions for complex, regulated environments.This is a senior, hands-on leadership role combining technical architecture, people leadership, delivery ownership, and stakeholder engagement across commercial, government, and infrastructure programmes. Key ResponsibilitiesSoftware Team Leadership and DevelopmentOwn and lead the organisation’s software, data, and software engineering strategyDefine solution architectures across cloud, data platforms, AI/ML, and enterprise systemsEnsure adoption of modern engineering best practices, including CI/CD, DevOps, cloud-native design, and automationTake architectural ownership of complex, mission-critical systemsBuild, lead, mentor, and scale a multi-disciplinary software engineering team (software, data, AI, DevOps)Establish and embed high-performance, agile ways of workingSet technical standards, governance, and quality controlsCoach senior engineers and develop future technical leaders Delivery & Programme OversightProvide senior oversight of large-scale, complex digital programmesEnsure delivery is on time, secure, and fit for purposeBalance hands-on technical involvement with strategic leadershipOwn technical risk and decision-making across projects AI, Data & Advanced AnalyticsLead development and deployment of AI, machine learning, and advanced data analytics solutionsOversee data pipelines, ETL/ELT, data governance, and analytics platformsTranslate AI and data science concepts into commercially viable solutions Cloud & InfrastructureLead cloud migration, modernisation, and optimisation initiativesEnsure security-by-design, scalability, resilience, and cost control Stakeholder & Client EngagementAct as a senior technical authority with customers, partners, and executive stakeholdersCommunicate complex technical concepts clearly to non-technical audiencesSupport bids, proposals, and technical solution shapingBuild long-term trusted relationships with key clients Governance, Security & ComplianceEnsure solutions meet security, regulatory, and governance standardsEmbed best practices around cybersecurity, data protection, and complianceOperate comfortably in regulated sectors (e.g. defence, infrastructure, public sector) Strategic Planning and InnovationStay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices to ensure the continuous improvement of MSP’s software offerings.Drive innovation by identifying opportunities for new solutions and efficiencies within the energy storage sector.Collaborate with senior leadership to define long-term strategic goals and ensure the engineering team’s work aligns with the company’s mission. Quality Assurance and StandardsEnsure high standards of quality control in all aspects of software development, from design to deployment.Establish and maintain software development processes and best practices to improve code quality, scalability, and maintainability.Conduct regular reviews of software systems and make recommendations for improvements or updates.

Technical SkillsExperience and ExpertiseProven experience in a senior engineering leadership role (Head of software Engineering, Head of Digital, Technical Director or similar)Track record leading software, data, AI and cloud engineering teams at scaleExperience delivering complex, enterprise or mission-critical systemsStrong background in architecture and system designExperience working with regulated industries preferredExperience in the power industry would be preferred, with an understanding of its regulatory requirements and technological trends.Comfortable operating across strategy, delivery, and hands-on technical leadershipProficiency in software development, with expertise in Linux, Python, C++/C#, JavaScript/.NETData platforms, SQL/NoSQL, streaming and pipeline technologiesIn-depth knowledge of protocols and standards, such as Modbus and CAN.Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to think critically and creatively to develop innovative solutions.Proven track record of managing software development teams, promoting professional development, and ensuring high performance.Strong experience in project management and delivering complex projects on time and within budget. Agile and DevOpsFamiliarity with Agile methodologies, including Scrum, and experience acting as a Scrum Master or overseeing Agile processes.Experience with DevOps practices and tools to facilitate continuous integration and deployment (CI/CD). EducationBachelor’s degree in engineering, Computer Science, or a related field. An advanced degree is preferred. Communication and CollaborationExcellent communication skills with the ability to clearly articulate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, clients, and senior leadership.