VP of Software Engineering [Dubai]

**This role requires relocation to Dubai**

Our client is looking for a VP of Software Engineering. This position is designed for a senior engineering leader who thrives in transformation environments. As VP of Engineering, you will act as the organisation’s top engineering authority, with full ownership of the function, spanning execution, organisational design, global delivery models, AI integration, platform strategy, and capability building.

1. Engineering Operations & Delivery

• Optimise the software development lifecycle (SDLC) end-to-end
• Improve QA processes, release cycles, and production reliability
• Increase deployment efficiency and code quality standards
• Introduce clear metrics, accountability, and delivery discipline

2. Squad Design & Team Restructuring

• Restructure the existing team into 3–5 high-performing squads
• Define roles, responsibilities, and squad ownership models
• Identify skill gaps, underperformance, and restructuring needs
• Balance upskilling vs selective replacement within budget constraints

3. Engineering Performance Uplift

• Drive a culture of high standards and accountability
• Improve output per engineer without increasing headcount
• Mentor Engineering Managers and senior engineers
• Build a clear understanding of who owns what and why

4. Technical Improvement Priorities

• Stabilise and improve payment systems
• Drive architecture improvements and modernisation
• Build/upgrade data infrastructure for analytics and decision-making
• Implement iterative, pragmatic rebuild strategies (not big bang)

We are seeking an engineering leader who has the following:

• 15+ years in software engineering, with at least five years in a senior engineering leadership role (VP, Head of Engineering, or equivalent) spanning multiple teams or geographies.
• Proven track record of transforming underperforming teams
• Strong experience managing multiple squads (3–5+)
• Deep understanding of engineering operations & SDLC optimisation
• Hands-on technical background (able to challenge architecture decisions)
• Hands-on involvement in AI/ML engineering programmes or AI-driven developer productivity initiatives.
• Experience in consumer technology, marketplace, or multi-sided platform businesses strongly preferred.

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