Expert Head of Software Engineering – Digital Services & Public Sector

Our client, a prominent public sector agency focused on regional infrastructure and housing services, is looking for an Expert Head of Software Engineering to drive the technical strategy and oversee multi-disciplinary development teams. This leader manages the complete software lifecycle while ensuring high-quality delivery through strategic sourcing and robust agile methodologies within a large-scale IT department.

• Develop and implement a pragmatic vision for software development and a sourcing strategy aligned with global ICT objectives.
• Manage the software development budget and ensure optimal resource allocation across various projects.
• Lead the recruitment and professional development of a diverse team of developers, analysts, and testers.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, initiative, and result-driven performance focused on organizational value.
• Coordinate all ongoing and planned development activities to ensure alignment between business demand and technical capacity.
• Enforce architecture and security governance across all development units and external partners.
• Support the transition of applications to operational support and professionalize the software lifecycle management processes.

• You have 20+ years of experience in a leadership role within a professional IT environment.
• You bring 20+ years of technical expertise in software engineering and architectural design.
• You possess 15+ years of experience managing large-scale infrastructure or software development projects.
• You have 8+ years of experience in program management including strategic portfolio oversight.
• You're experienced in managing teams of at least 15 people, including internal staff and external consultants.
• You possess in-depth knowledge of Agile methodologies, software testing, and maintenance practices.
• You have practical experience with project management techniques such as risk management and issue tracking.
• You are fluent in Dutch with a C2 level of proficiency.

Nice to Haves

• Knowledge of Prince2, PMBOK, or MSP methodologies.
• Experience with ITIL processes and service management.
• Kennis of and experience working within the Flemish government.
• Proactive, customer-oriented, and focused on continuous improvement.

• Start date: 01/06/2026
• Duration: 7 months (with possibility of extension)
• Work regime: Full-time
• Location: Brussels
• Contract: open to both permanent employees and freelancers