Software Project Director

The role

We are looking for a highly experienced Project Director / Software Programme Manager (PMP) to lead the delivery of strategic software programmes within a complex high-tech environment, semiconductor equipment, advanced manufacturing, and industrial automation sectors.

This role combines Programme Management, Technical Leadership, Stakeholder Management, and Software Engineering expertise. You will be responsible for driving large-scale software development initiatives, managing multidisciplinary engineering teams, and ensuring successful delivery of mission-critical systems.

The ideal candidate combines a strong software engineering background with proven experience as a Programme Manager, Project Director, or Delivery Lead in a fast-paced high-tech environment.

Programme & Project Leadership

• Lead complex software development programmes from concept to deployment.
• Define programme roadmaps, budgets, delivery strategies, and resource planning.
• Drive execution of multiple parallel projects across international engineering teams.
• Manage Quality, Cost, Delivery (QCD) objectives and programme KPIs.
• Report programme progress, risks, and mitigation plans to senior management.
• Ensure alignment between business objectives and software delivery strategy.

Software Engineering Leadership

• Provide technical oversight for software architecture and system development.
• Drive engineering excellence, software quality, and development best practices.
• Support decision-making on technology stacks, architecture, and engineering processes.
• Foster Agile, SAFe, DevOps, and Continuous Integration methodologies.
• Guide software teams through complex technical challenges and system integration activities.

Stakeholder & Team Management

• Lead and mentor Project Managers, Technical Leads, and Software Engineers.
• Build high-performing, multidisciplinary teams.
• Collaborate with system, electronics, mechatronics, and manufacturing teams.
• Manage executive-level stakeholders and strategic customer relationships.
• Support recruitment, competency development, and succession planning.

Operational Excellence

• Establish effective governance structures and programme management frameworks.
• Monitor budget, forecasting, and programme profitability.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across engineering organisations.
• Identify and mitigate programme risks in complex development environments.
• Contribute to organisational transformation and software development maturity.

Your profile

• Master’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related field.
• 7-10+ years of experience in Software Engineering.
• First experience as Programme Manager, Project Director, Delivery Manager, Software Development Manager, or Engineering Manager.
• Proven experience leading large-scale software development programmes.
• Strong experience within high-tech industries.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.
• Fluent English speaker.

Working Conditions

• You get a permanent contract.
• You get a lease car with a fuel card.
• Possibility of hybrid working.
• Monthly net expense allowance.
• 27 vacation days with the possibility to purchase 10 extra vacation days.
• Pension scheme without personal contribution.

About ALTEN

ALTEN is a global leader in engineering and technology consulting, supporting top-tier clients in their innovation and R&D strategies. With over 57,000 employees in more than 30 countries, we operate across diverse sectors such as aerospace, automotive, telecom, finance, energy, and life sciences.

ALTEN Nederland is a key entity within the ALTEN Group, with offices in Eindhoven, Capelle aan den IJssel, Apeldoorn, Groningen and Amstelveen. Our 550+ consultants deliver high-value solutions in Technology and IT.