Head of Software & Electronics

ghd; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology firm is seeking a senior leader to manage and develop high-performing teams of software and electronics engineers. The role involves overseeing embedded software development and ensuring compliance with various standards while driving innovation in projects. Candidates should have over 10 years of experience in consumer electronics, a relevant degree, and strong leadership abilities. This position is critical to delivering quality products and maintaining project timelines.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of relevant technical experience in high-volume consumer electronics.
• Proven expertise in embedded software development and electronics hardware design.
• Experience with hardware / firmware integration and project management.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of software and electronics teams to meet project goals.
• Oversee architecture and integration of embedded software and firmware solutions.
• Collaborate with CTO and stakeholders to drive innovation.

Skills

Embedded software development

Leadership of engineering teams

Project management

Software engineering best practices

Regulatory compliance awareness

Education

Degree in Electronics Engineering or Computer Science

Advanced degree preferred

Tools

C / C++ / Python

RTOS

Job description

JOB ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead, manage, and develop high-performing teams of software and electronics engineers to deliver projects on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
• Define and execute the software and electronics strategy in alignment with company objectives and the Innovation Master Plan (IMP).
• Oversee the architecture, development, and integration of embedded software, firmware, and electronics for all products.
• Ensure all software and electronics solutions meet compliance, functionality, reliability, cybersecurity, and safety requirements.
• Collaborate closely with the CTO and other senior leaders to drive innovation and technology roadmaps.
• Present project updates, technical reviews, and innovation proposals at Stage Gates and executive forums.
• Foster a culture of technical excellence, continuous learning, and proactive problem-solving.
• Evaluate and implement new technologies, tools, and methodologies relevant to software and electronics engineering.
• Liaise with internal and external stakeholders, including suppliers, contract manufacturers, consultants, and cross-functional teams (., Mechanical, Operations, Quality, Project Management).
• Support the transfer of new products to manufacturing and assist in field issue analysis and resolution.
• Manage multiple priorities, mitigate risks, and ensure effective resource allocation across projects.

KEY SKILLS & ATTRIBUTES

Key Skills

• Degree in Electronics Engineering, Computer Science, or related field; advanced degree preferred.
• 10+ years of relevant technical experience, ideally in high-volume consumer electronics or similar industries.
• Proven expertise in embedded software development (C / C++ / Python, microcontrollers, RTOS, and electronics hardware design.
• Strong understanding of software engineering best practices, including version control, CI / CD, testing, and code quality.
• Familiarity with embedded machine learning techniques, would be desirable.
• Experience with hardware / firmware integration, electronic simulation / design, PCB review, EMC, and design for manufacturability.
• Familiarity with IoT, BLE, connectivity protocols, and cybersecurity for embedded systems.
• Demonstrated success in new product development and project management.
• Deep awareness of regulatory, cost, and manufacturing / assembly considerations.

Key Attributes

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in line management and leadership of multidisciplinary engineering teams.
• Strategic thinker with strong decision-making skills and the ability to deliver under tight deadlines.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; able to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
• Proactive, engaged, and collaborative leader who inspires and develops talent.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage competing priorities.

VALUES

We at ghd are proudly committed to our Company Values and aim to attract and retain employees who live our Values.

• Collaborative – We work together to create the extraordinary.
• Creative – We foster creativity & excellence to create value for our brands and business.
• Courageous – We are agile, entrepreneurial & we own our future.
• Connected – We stay connected and ensure we are always consumer first.
• Committed – We are responsible for our impact on other & the planet.