What does a technical director do?
Technical directors oversee the technical aspects of a company’s operations, ensuring that technology, infrastructure, and innovation align with business goals. They work across industries like software development, engineering, manufacturing, and media production.
These professionals bridge the gap between business objectives and technical execution, making critical decisions to drive innovation and maintain operational excellence.
The role of technical directors involves strategic planning, team leadership, and hands-on problem-solving to enhance technical performance and efficiency. They lead teams of engineers, developers, and IT specialists, guiding technical strategy, ensuring system reliability, and implementing best practices for scalability and security.
Technical directors are also called technology directors, technology managers, and technical managers.
Though similar in roles and responsibilities, technical directors differ from chief technology officers (CTOs). While the former is a more execution-focused role managing technical projects, a CTO is a strategic role, responsible for the company’s overall technology strategy and vision. Similarly, IT directors oversee the company’s IT infrastructure and services and would be managed by technical directors.
Job Description: Template
We’re seeking an experienced technical director to join our team at [Company X].
In this role, you will oversee system architecture, implement technical strategies, manage project execution smoothly, and align technology initiatives with business objectives. You will also lead our technology teams, drive innovation, and ensure the successful execution of technical projects.
The ideal candidate has strong leadership skills, deep technical expertise, and a proven track record of driving innovation. If you are passionate about technology leadership, leading high-performing teams, and shaping the future of technology within an organisation, we encourage you to apply.
We offer an attractive remuneration package with a collaborative work environment, professional growth opportunities, and employee benefits like health insurance, flexible work arrangements, and continuous learning programs.
Objectives of the role
- Leading the technical strategy, system architecture, and project execution across multiple departments.
- Overseeing software development, IT infrastructure, and technical operations to ensure efficiency and scalability.
- Collaborating with senior management, stakeholders, and cross-functional teams to align technical goals with business objectives.
- Ensuring best practices in software development, system integration, and cybersecurity.
- Driving innovation by evaluating and implementing new technologies that enhance company capabilities.
- Managing technical teams and mentoring engineers, developers, and IT professionals.
- Ensuring compliance with industry standards, data security policies, and regulatory requirements.
- Handling budgeting, resource allocation, and vendor negotiations for technical projects.
- Troubleshooting critical technical challenges and providing strategic solutions to complex problems.
- Establishing and maintaining technical documentation, process guidelines, and quality assurance protocols.
Your tasks
- Define and execute the company’s technical roadmap and long-term vision.
- Oversee the design and deployment of software applications, networks, and cloud systems.
- Develop and enforce technical standards, coding guidelines, and software development frameworks.
- Coordinate with product and business teams to translate requirements into technical solutions.
- Manage disaster recovery, cybersecurity, and risk management efforts to safeguard company assets.
- Oversee performance optimisation and ensure all systems meet scalability, security, and reliability requirements.
- Develop and mentor technical staff, fostering an environment of continuous learning and improvement.
- Evaluate and improve development processes, tools, and infrastructure for operational efficiency.
- Represent the company in technical discussions, conferences, and partnerships.
- Stay ahead of industry trends and recommend emerging technologies to maintain a competitive edge.
Required skills and qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Technology, or a related field.
- 10+ years of experience in technical leadership roles, with a strong background in software development, IT infrastructure, or engineering management.
- Strong knowledge of software development, cloud computing, system architecture, cybersecurity, and DevOps.
- Certification in Cloud Computing (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud), IT Security (CISSP, CISM), or Project Management (PMP, PRINCE2, Agile, Scrum).
- Hands-on experience with programming languages, databases, and enterprise-level systems.
- Familiarity with enterprise systems, data management, and networking protocols.
- Proven ability to manage and lead technical teams, budgets, and large-scale projects.
- Excellent problem-solving, strategic thinking, and leadership skills.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills to work with stakeholders and executives.
Preferred skills and qualifications
- Master’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field.
- Certifications in technical leadership, enterprise architecture, or cloud computing (like TOGAF, AWS Certified Solutions Architect).
- Familiarity with regulatory compliance, data governance, and security protocols (such as GDPR, HIPAA, and ISO 27001).
- Experience working in high-growth startups, enterprise IT, or R&D-driven organisations.
- Knowledge of AI, machine learning, blockchain, IoT, and emerging technologies.
