Head of Systems & Software

Head of Systems & Software Location: Oxfordshire Employment Type: Permanent Role Overview We are seeking an experienced Head of Systems & Software to lead a small team of engineers delivering robust, high-performance electronic architectures for elite motorsport and high-performance vehicle programmes. This role has end-to-end ownership of electronics systems, from concept and validation through to trackside deployment. You will define electronics and software strategy, ensure system reliability and regulatory compliance, and support multiple programmes across factory, test, and race environments. Working closely with electrical design, vehicle, and powertrain teams, you will ensure seamless integration of electronics systems and the delivery of optimised, reliable, and compliant solutions. This role will also be hands-on, so candidates must ensure they are comfortable to do so. Key Responsibilities Team Leadership & Delivery * Lead, mentor, and develop a small team of systems and software engineers. * Set technical direction, priorities, and delivery plans across multiple programmes. * Allocate resources, conduct performance reviews, and grow team capability. Establish engineering standards and ensure on-time, on-budget delivery. * Foster a culture of continuous improvement, reliability, and accountability. Systems Architecture & Integration * Define and own the vehicle electronics architecture, including: * ECUs, PDMs, and power distribution * Network topology (CAN, CAN FD, LIN, Ethernet, FlexRay where applicable) * Gateways and telemetry systems * Collaborate with the electrical design team on harness design, connectors, sensors, actuators, and packaging. * Ensure solutions meet performance, durability, and regulatory requirements. * Manage system requirements and revision control across multiple platforms and programmes. Software & Controls * Own embedded software strategy and development, including: * Low-level drivers and calibration layers * Control algorithms, diagnostics, and fail-safes * Oversee toolchains and workflows (e.g. C/C++, MATLAB/Simulink, Python for tooling, ETAS INCA, Vector CANalyzer/CANoe, Bosch, MoTeC, Cosworth toolsets). * Implement robust software release management, including branching/versioning, CI/CD, HIL testing, bench tests, and regression testing. Reliability, Safety & Compliance * Drive FMEA and DFMEA activities and define robust validation plans (bench, rig, and track). * Own incident response and root-cause analysis. * Ensure compliance with FIA and series regulations, homologation constraints, scrutineering requirements, and data compliance. * Skills & Experience Essential * Significant motorsport experience with direct involvement in high-level programmes (e.g. GT3, WEC, W2RC, WRC), typically 5–8+ years. * Proven experience leading a small team of systems and software engineers in a fast-paced race environment. * Strong background in embedded systems and vehicle networks including hands-on experience with ECU configuration, sensor/actuator integration, and diagnostics. * Proficiency with motorsport electronics ecosystems (e.g. Bosch, Cosworth, MoTeC, Marelli, Life Racing). * Experience with model-based design (MATLAB/Simulink). * Experience with reliability engineering (FMEA, test plans), HIL/rig testing, and trackside fault-finding under time pressure. * Familiarity with FIA regulations, homologation processes, scrutineering, and data compliance. * Degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related discipline (or equivalent experience). This role offers the opportunity to lead the development of high-performance electronics and software systems within a collaborative, technically demanding environment, contributing directly to elite motorsport and advanced vehicle programmes