R&D Software Development Director

Company Overview

VIAVI Solutions (NASDAQ: VIAV) is a worldwide leader providing network test, monitoring, and assurance solutions across sectors including telecommunications, cloud services, enterprises, first responders, military, aerospace, and railways. Alongside, they excel in light management technologies applied in 3D sensing, anti-counterfeiting, consumer electronics, industrial, automotive, government, and aerospace fields.

Employees at VIAVI are dedicated to supporting customer success, fostering an environment that encourages inquiry, collaborative problem-solving, and delivering innovative solutions that exceed customer expectations.

Role Summary and Responsibilities

As Director of R&D Engineering within VIAVI's Automated Mobile Solutions (AMS) Business Unit, this leadership position commands a global team of about 200 engineers spread across the UK, Romania, Colorado, and Chennai. The role is critical in transforming a multifaceted telecom software portfolio through contemporary engineering practices including AI-powered development and strategic platform simplification.

• Steer the transition of AMS into an AI-driven engineering organisation.
• Champion the integration of Generative AI and automated development methodologies across diverse teams worldwide.
• Establish engineering strategies, define KPIs, and set operational benchmarks to elevate productivity and delivery outcomes.
• Drive the simplification and modernization of software portfolios covering Network Assurance, Geolocation, and AIOps solutions.
• Mentor and grow engineering leadership across multiple international sites.
• Collaborate closely with product management, commercial units, and executives to synchronize technology investments with business goals.
• Ensure excellence in delivery, uphold quality standards, predictability of releases, and cost-effectiveness.

Candidate Profile and Requirements

The ideal candidate brings order, accountability, and operational rigor while maintaining vigor, adaptability, and a readiness to challenge existing norms to foster change. They should be well-versed in AI adoption at scale and experienced in operationalizing AI across engineering organizations rather than mere experimentation.

• Over 12 years of experience in software engineering with a strong track record of leading large teams.
• Experienced in managing distributed R&D units comprising 100+ engineers.
• Proven expertise in spearheading large-scale engineering transformation projects.
• Deep knowledge of software architecture and platform strategy.
• Practical experience with AI-powered software development and initiatives to boost engineering productivity.
• Competent in defining and analyzing KPIs to monitor and enhance software delivery performance.
• Familiarity with telecommunications software domains such as network assurance, OSS/BSS, AIOps, and vendors like NetScout and Amdocs is highly advantageous.

Equal Opportunity Statement

VIAVI Solutions values diversity and is committed to providing equal opportunity in employment to minorities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities.