Head of Global Blockchain Research & Development

EY; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking company as the Head of Global Blockchain Research & Development, where you will lead a dedicated team of experts in exploring innovative blockchain solutions. This role combines management with technical expertise, allowing you to shape the future of blockchain technology while working collaboratively with diverse teams. You will define strategies, manage R&D efforts, and foster innovation in a dynamic environment. With a focus on cutting-edge applications, your contributions will directly impact influential clients and the broader industry landscape. This is an exciting opportunity for passionate leaders eager to drive transformation in a rapidly evolving field.

Benefits

Flexible work environment

Future-focused skills development

Diverse and inclusive culture

Qualifications

• Deep knowledge of ZKP mathematics and cryptography.
• Proven thought leadership in blockchain and ZKP fields.
• Experience in designing production-grade blockchain applications.

Responsibilities

• Define and execute blockchain R&D strategy.
• Manage R&D team and contribute to innovative products.
• Collaborate with Product Owners on technical roadmaps.

Skills

ZKP mathematics

Rust programming

Cryptography

Agile development

Blockchain ecosystems knowledge

Education

PhD in STEM

Equivalent relevant experience

Tools

Blockchain applications

Job description

Head of Global Blockchain Research & Development

Join to apply for the Head of Global Blockchain Research & Development role at EY

Head of Global Blockchain Research & Development

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Join to apply for the Head of Global Blockchain Research & Development role at EY

At EY, we’re committed to shaping your future with confidence. We support your success within a globally connected, diverse team and help advance your career.

Join EY and contribute to building a better working world.

Disruption is transforming the way the world operates, creating opportunities for those who can adapt and innovate. We have established a dedicated Global Innovation team to understand external forces shaping our world and to explore new approaches over 6 months, 3 years, 10 years, and beyond.

In this dynamic landscape, we challenge ourselves to embrace disruption and think differently for our clients. We combine deep expertise in Tax, Accounting, Advisory, and Transactions with startup thinking, fostering an innovative mindset for today's challenges.

Our global network of EY teams and innovation centers develop powerful ideas and solutions, especially around artificial intelligence, blockchain, robotics, and data analytics.

The opportunity

You will be a key member of our Global Blockchain Leadership team, an innovative and collaborative group of software engineers, cryptographers, mathematicians, and business strategists dedicated to blockchain technology and product development. At EY, you will help our clients—some of the most influential companies—explore emergent applications and transform business practices. As Head of Blockchain Research and Development, you will lead a world-class team working on cutting-edge EY Blockchain products.

Essential Functions of the Job

• Define and execute the organization’s blockchain research and development strategy, contributing to innovative EY Blockchain Products.
• Manage and support the R&D team in developing new privacy and scalability technologies, while making personal contributions.
• Be a thought leader in blockchain and zero-knowledge proof (ZKP) technology.
• Collaborate with Product Owners to support their technical roadmaps with appropriate solutions.
• Foster collaboration across teams to align technology strategy with business objectives.
• Contribute to budgeting processes for the R&D team.
• Stay updated on field developments and adapt strategies accordingly.
• Ensure R&D delivery meets quality, risk, and independence standards.
• Set KPIs for the team and drive technical and research effectiveness, ensuring efficient resource allocation.

Blockchain technology is complex and evolving. Beyond essential skills, a love for learning, experimentation, and leading by example are crucial.

This role combines management with technical expertise, requiring you to be a thought leader and active contributor in the R&D team.

Analytical/Decision Making Responsibilities

• Promote proactive issue identification and solution presentation.
• Encourage innovation and support risk-taking within the team.
• Communicate clearly about problems and solutions.
• Create an inclusive environment that values open communication and constructive challenge.
• Prioritize workloads to meet organizational goals.
• Provide leadership, make decisions, and guide approaches based on quality reviews.

Qualifications and Experience

• Deep knowledge of ZKP mathematics, elliptic curve pairing, KZG commitments, inner product arguments, etc.
• Proven thought leadership in blockchain and ZKP fields.
• Advanced programming skills in Rust, with a focus on reusable, professional code.
• Experience designing and managing production-grade ZKP-enabled blockchain applications.
• Strong cryptography skills, including hashes, signatures, elliptic curve cryptography.
• Likely PhD in STEM, or equivalent relevant experience.
• Experience working in Agile development teams.
• Understanding of blockchain ecosystems, including Ethereum, EIPs, tokens, DeFi, and Solidity programming.
• 10-15 years of technical experience across various departments, including public blockchain development.

Other Requirements

• Hybrid work structure: expected to work 2-3 days per week from the London office; travel is not paid for, and full remote work is not available.
• Occasional travel to other locations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Passion for technology and blockchain applications.

What We Look For

Self-motivated problem-solvers with excellent prioritization skills, capable of thriving in a high-demand, collaborative environment. Team-oriented leaders who value collective achievement and are passionate about solving complex client issues.

What We Offer

Future-focused skills development, world-class experiences, flexible work environment, and a diverse, inclusive culture within globally connected teams. Learn more about our offerings.

Are you ready to shape your future with confidence? Apply today.

For an equitable and inclusive recruitment process, please inform us of any disability-related accommodations needed.

About EY

EY builds a better working world by creating value for clients, people, society, and the planet. Enabled by data, AI, and advanced technology, EY helps clients navigate future challenges across assurance, consulting, tax, strategy, and transactions, in over 150 countries.