Software Team Leader, Mission Critical Communications. London

My client is a highly innovative global company that’s well established in critical communications and they’re seeking a hands-on and strategic Team Leader to lead the development team, which includes Developers, DevOps and Software Testing teams, ensuring the delivery of secure, high-quality systems for government and public safety clients.

Job Summary

This is a leadership role that combines technical depth with people management. You will oversee the DevOps and Test Engineering teams responsible for building, deploying, and validating mission-critical software systems. You will work closely with Engineering Managers, Architects, and Program Managers to ensure delivery excellence, operational resilience, and continuous improvement across the software lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of 6-8 high-performing DevOps and Test Engineers.
• Define and implement DevOps strategies, CI/CD pipelines, and infrastructure automation.
• Oversee the development and execution of test strategies, plans, and reports.
• Ensure quality assurance processes are embedded across the software lifecycle.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align delivery with program goals.
• Drive adoption of best practices in software testing, release management, and monitoring.
• Support secure and compliant deployments for government and public sector clients.
• Manage team performance and resource planning.
• Contribute to technical decision-making and continuous improvement initiatives.

Required Experience and Skills

• 5+ years of experience in software engineering, DevOps, or QA roles, with at least 2 years in a leadership role.
• Proven experience in writing and checking code, especially in C++, as this is a 'hands-on' team leader role.
• Strong understanding of CI/CD tools (e.g., Jenkins, GitLab CI, Azure DevOps).
• Experience with containerisation and orchestration (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes).
• Solid knowledge of networking protocols (IP, TCP, UDP, VoIP – SIP/RTP).
• Proficiency in scripting languages (e.g., Bash, Python, SQL).
• Strong grasp of software testing methodologies and QA processes.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related discipline.
• Experience working on mission-critical or secure systems (e.g., public safety, defence).
• Familiarity with virtualised Linux environments and embedded systems.
• Knowledge of public safety protocols (e.g., MC-PTT, DMR, TETRA) or 3GPP standards.
• Experience working with or for UK Government departments (e.g., Home Office, MOD).

Key Attributes for Success

• Problem solver with a hands-on approach.
• Strong leadership and team-building skills.
• High attention to detail and quality.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment.
• Passionate about automation, reliability, and continuous improvement.

My client offers an excellent package and benefits with the added flexibility to work from home and attend their London or Reading offices as required.

Interested? Please send your CV so we can arrange a time to discuss for full details