Chief Technology Officer

Cleeve Partnership; Lincoln; Hybrid; GBP 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible salary

SLT Incentivisation Scheme

Hybrid working

Job summary

A leading defence technology firm in the UK is seeking a hands-on Chief Technology Officer (CTO) to lead software development teams and tackle complex technical challenges. The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of experience in software leadership, strong skills in C++, C#, and Python, as well as expertise in Defence or Simulation. This role offers flexible salary, hybrid working, and the chance to enhance national security through innovative technology solutions.

Qualifications

• 5+ years leading software development teams.
• Strong foundation in C++, C#, or Python.
• Expertise in Defence, Simulation, or Sensors.
• Track record in complex software architecture.
• UK citizenship with ability for SC clearance.
• Hands-on and collaborative leadership style.

Responsibilities

• Lead technical development and teams.
• Solve complex technical challenges directly.
• Engage with customers and stakeholders.

Skills

Leading software development teams

C++

C#

Python

Architecting complex software solutions

Collaboration

Tools

Code reviews

Job description

Overview

Lead the Future of Defence Simulation Technology

When RAF sensor operators scan hostile territories, when submarine hunters track underwater threats, when military intelligence teams decode electronic warfare signals – their success depends on world-class training. We’re working with a fast growing client that creates and builds systems and delivers that training.

This isn't a typical CTO role. We need someone who is in the trenches with the team – helping to solve complex technical challenges in C++, C#, and Python, reviewing architecture, mentoring developers. You'll have genuine autonomy to build your own 'train set' and see the immediate impact of your efforts, as clients use the solutions your team has delivered.

Growing 30-40% annually (projected 50% this year), they’re delivering complex simulation projects; from acoustic Anti-Submarine Warfare training to radar and electronic warfare systems, VR/AR solutions, and sensor operator training. Customers include UK MOD, international air forces, and defence primes (like Lockheed Martin and QinetiQ). And they’re now looking for a CTO to lead the technical development and teams.

What We Need

• 5+ years leading software development teams
• Strong technical foundation in C++, C#, Python or similar
• Expertise in at least TWO of: Defence, Simulation & Modelling, or Sensors
• Track record architecting complex software solutions
• UK citizenship with ability to obtain SC clearance
• Leadership style that's hands-on, collaborative, and comfortable from code reviews to board meetings to customer engagement.

What’s On Offer

Flexible salary for exceptional candidates, SLT Incentivisation Scheme , hybrid working (3-4 days in office near Lincoln), and the opportunity to lead technology that genuinely matters – building systems that enhance the safety and effectiveness of personnel defending our nation.

For more information and to apply please contact: