Program Director, Software Engineering

Versaterm; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

A global public safety solutions company is seeking a Program Director, Software Engineering to lead technology modernization initiatives. This role involves managing enterprise-wide programs, ensuring high standards for product development, and collaborating with key stakeholders. The ideal candidate has over 10 years of experience in technology leadership and a strong background in modern delivery frameworks. This position offers an opportunity to innovate and significantly impact the future of public safety technology.

Benefits

Inclusion and diversity commitment

Accommodations available upon request

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in technology or modernization programs.
• Proven ability to manage complex cross-functional initiatives.
• Strong understanding of modern delivery frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Technology Modernization Office and governance frameworks.
• Drive alignment across AI initiatives and legacy remediation.
• Oversee integrated portfolio of programs.

Skills

Leadership of enterprise technology initiatives

Communication skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving abilities

Education

Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, IT Business Administration or related field

Job description

Versaterm is a global public safety solutions company helping agencies transform how they serve their communities. Since 1977, we’ve been building an ecosystem of intuitive tools designed for public safety agencies, forensic labs, court systems, schools and other institutions. Through purposeful integrations and a selective growth strategy, we focus on improving workflows to help our customers achieve more efficient operations, better service and more just outcomes.

Our teams are driven by innovation, expertise and an unwavering commitment to customer success. As we continue to grow and expand our ecosystem, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute to solutions that enhance community safety and transform the future of public safety technology. If you’re passionate about making a meaningful difference, we’d love to hear from you.

The Role

The Program Director, Software Engineering will serve as the strategic and operational lead for ongoing Technology Modernization initiatives. Reporting to the CTO, this role provides oversight and coordination for enterprise-wide technology transformation programs — including AI modernization, shared service enablement, platform consolidation, and tech debt remediation.

This role will partner with leadership in Engineering and collaborate with Product and Operations leadership to drive disciplined execution and visibility into outcomes that advance the organization’s long‑term technology strategy.

You will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our technology and ensuring that our products are built to the highest standards. You’ll have the opportunity to drive innovation and impact the direction of our business in a significant way.

What You Do

• Establish and lead the Technology Modernization Office, defining structure, operating cadence, and governance frameworks
• Partner with technology and business leadership to translate modernization objectives into executable portfolios of work
• Drive alignment and accountability across AI initiatives, platform modernization, shared service buildouts, and legacy remediation programs
• Oversee the integrated portfolio of programs—monitoring interdependencies, risks, costs, and delivery progress
• Lead executive reporting and KPI tracking for modernization outcomes, platform efficiency, and AI enablement maturity
• Provide decision support to the Chief Technology Officer and Chief Product Officer through synthesized insights on program health, prioritization, and risk mitigation
• Develop and maintain standardized PMO practices for planning, intake, and delivery management across all transformation workstreams
• Facilitate coordination across engineering, operations, and cybersecurity to ensure secure and scalable delivery
• Promote organizational adoption of new platforms and practices through structured change management and stakeholder engagement
• Mentor and guide program and project management staff to drive consistency and delivery excellence

What You Bring

• Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, IT Business Administration or a related field, or equivalent industry experience and training
• 10+ years of experience leading enterprise technology or modernization programs, ideally within AI enablement, cloud, or shared service environments
• Proven ability to manage complex cross‑functional initiatives and influence senior stakeholders across technology and business domains
• Experience in PMO leadership or Chief of Staff roles supporting digital or data transformation
• Strong understanding of modern delivery frameworks (Agile, hybrid, or scaled portfolio management)
• Excellent executive communication, organizational, and analytical skills
• Strong problem‑solving abilities and a proactive approach to overcoming challenges
• Proven ability to make data‑driven decisions and provide clear, actionable feedback

Impress Us With

• Familiarity with cloud computing concepts and modern software delivery practices
• Familiarity with CJIS, ISO, SOC 2 or other high regulation procedures
• Previous experience in GovTech or Public Safety Tech is a plus
• PMP Certification preferred

Versaterm is committed to building and supporting inclusion, diversity, and equity, and sustaining a barrier‑free environment. Accommodations are available, on request, throughout all aspects of the selection process. These principles apply to the terms and conditions of employment at Versaterm. For detailed information on our accessibility policies, please contact [e-mail].