Technical Director

We are partnering with a leading defence and maritime technology company based in Portsmouth developing advanced software solutions for next-generation naval and mission-critical systems.

Following continued growth and significant programme wins, the business is now looking to appoint a Technical Director to lead the technical direction of complex software programmes and drive innovation across its engineering function.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced technical leader who enjoys shaping software strategy while remaining close to technology. You will provide technical leadership across multiple C++ software development and embedded teams, working closely with engineering, programme management and senior stakeholders to deliver high-performance software solutions for defence and maritime applications.

The role is based in Portsmouth and requires office working of 3 days a week.

• Define and drive the technical strategy across multiple C++ software development and embedded programmes.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to Software Architects, Engineering Managers and Senior Software Engineers.
• Oversee the design and development of high-performance, mission‑critical software systems.
• Drive software architecture, engineering standards and best practices across the organisation.
• Work closely with Systems, Electronics and Integration teams to ensure successful delivery of complex platforms.
• Support programme planning, technical risk management and customer engagements.
• Review technical proposals, solution architectures and design decisions throughout the software lifecycle.
• Champion continuous improvement, innovation and adoption of modern software development methodologies.

• Degree‑qualified in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electronics or a related technical discipline.
• Significant experience developing complex software applications using modern C++.
• Proven experience leading large‑scale software engineering teams within defence, maritime, aerospace or another highly regulated environment.
• Strong understanding of software architecture, object‑oriented design and distributed systems.
• Experience delivering safety‑critical or mission‑critical software throughout the full development lifecycle.
• Excellent stakeholder management skills with experience working alongside customers and senior leadership.
• Previous experience leading technical strategy across multiple concurrent engineering programmes.

• Experience with Linux‑based development environments.
• Knowledge of networking, distributed systems or real‑time software.
• Experience with DDS, middleware technologies or secure communications.
• Understanding of MOD standards, maritime systems or defence acquisition programmes.
• Current or previous UK Security Clearance (SC or DV).
• Performance Bonus, Enhanced Pension Scheme, Private Healthcare, Life Assurance
• 25 Days Holiday + Bank Holidays, Flexible Hybrid Working