Interim Head of Software Engineering

London (Hybrid) | 3–6 Months

We are seeking an experienced Head of Software Engineering to lead a critical function within a large, complex organisation’s IT Services team.

You will oversee a multi-disciplinary function covering software engineering, enterprise integrations, application platforms, data engineering, reporting and analytics, ensuring the delivery of secure, resilient and scalable digital services.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Software Engineering function across development, integrations, platforms and data services
• Oversee the support, maintenance and continuous improvement of enterprise applications and platforms
• Ensure services are secure, reliable and resilient, with strong governance and lifecycle management
• Drive modernisation of systems, including reducing technical debt and improving engineering practices
• Define and implement technical strategy, standards and roadmaps across software, integration and data services
• Lead enterprise integration capability, including APIs and critical institutional data flows
• Manage stakeholders, priorities and resources to balance operational delivery and strategic initiatives
• Oversee suppliers and technology partners, including contracts and performance

Experience Required

• Proven leadership of enterprise software engineering or technology functions within large, complex environments
• Strong track record delivering secure, customer-focused digital services across applications, integrations and data
• Experience managing operational services, including service continuity, governance and support models
• Expertise in modern software engineering, integration and data platforms
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and leadership skills

Desirable

• Experience within Higher Education or a similar complex organisation
• ITIL, Agile or relevant technical certifications