Head of Automation Development

Our client is looking for a Head of Automation Development to lead, scale and inspire their CTO automation development teams across Fixed, Mobile and B2B networks. You'll head up a high-performing group of 30+ developers, driving innovation, code quality and delivery excellence.This role is a rare opportunity to blend strategic leadership with hands-on technical direction, working across cutting-edge automation, microservices and emerging AI/ML concepts, all in the context of large-scale transformation.

What you'll do:

• Lead, grow, and mentor multiple development squads across fixed, mobile and B2B networks.
• Drive the design and delivery of automation solutions, breaking down silos and creating synergies.
• Oversee code quality, coding standards and ways of working.
• Work with product teams, architects and analysts to maximise delivery value.
• Shape strategic use cases, design tactical solutions and explore innovative tools and libraries.
• Foster a continuous improvement culture, ensuring delivery is efficient, scalable and secure.
• Promote data-driven decision making and agile best practices.

What we're looking for:

• Experienced leader with a strong software engineering background.
• Proven track record in fixed, mobile or B2B network environments.
• Background in large-scale network or IT transformations.
• Continuous improvement mindset with the ability to inspire high performance in others.

Key skills & technologies:Automation & orchestration: Cisco NSO, Ansible, workflow automation platforms.Programming & modelling: Python, JavaScript, Netconf, XML, JSON, YANG, TOSCA.Architectural approaches: Microservices, CI/CD/CT (GitLab, Robot, Selenium, Cucumber, Veracode, SonarQube).Emerging technology: Familiarity with AI/ML concepts and their application in automation.

Please note: This role is a hybrid working, contract role with an immediate start date.