Purpose of the Role:
Automation is shifting from hardware‑led value to intelligence‑led value. This role is responsible for defining, owning and executing the WCS and AI strategy across the organisation, ensuring that modern software and AI capabilities deliver measurable improvements in margin, delivery speed, scalability, safety and long‑term competitiveness.
The position operates at the intersection of technology strategy, engineering delivery and executive-level decision‑making. It functions as the key translator between engineering teams and business leadership.
Key Responsibilities
Define and Lead WCS + AI Strategy
* Own the long‑term roadmap for WCS, orchestration platforms, AI adoption and intelligent automation.
* Ensure AI is integrated across software platforms, product architectures, manufacturing processes and engineering workflows.
Industrial AI and Advanced Engineering
* Identify high‑impact AI and LLM applications across controls, software engineering, R&D and operations.
* Champion advanced engineering methods including rapid prototyping, vibe‑coding and LLM‑assisted development.
* Establish and maintain governance frameworks covering safety, compliance, risk and production‑grade deployment.
Cross‑Functional Technical Leadership
* Provide credible leadership across software engineering, PLC/controls, manufacturing, product management and R&D.
* Influence executives, board members and senior engineers on technology direction, investment priorities and strategic decision‑making.
Commercial and Strategic Impact
* Build robust business cases for technology investments, covering ROI, risk, and capex/opex considerations.
* Ensure technology initiatives drive higher margins, improved delivery performance and scalable long‑term product value.
Key Experience Requirements (Essential on CVs)
Seniority / Leadership Level
* Previous experience in roles such as Technical Director, CIO, CTO, VP Engineering or Head of Software/Controls.
* Proven ability to own and deliver cross‑functional technology strategy rather than simply managing a development team.
Industrial Automation and Software Expertise
* Strong background in industrial software, PLC‑based controls, robotics, warehouse automation, production systems or complex engineered equipment.
* Familiarity with WCS/WMS systems, orchestration platforms or automated intralogistics solutions.
AI / LLM Application in Real Industrial Environments
* Practical experience deploying AI/LLM models within real engineering or production workflows.
* Exposure to AI‑assisted development, rapid development methodologies and modern tools such as GPT, Claude or similar.
Strategic and Commercial Capability
* Demonstrated ability to link technology decisions with measurable commercial outcomes such as margin improvement, scalability, delivery speed and risk reduction.
* Strong understanding of financial considerations including business case development, investment evaluation and portfolio prioritisation.
Cross‑Discipline Leadership
* Experience leading multi‑discipline engineering teams including software, controls, electronics, manufacturing and R&D.
* Ability to communicate and influence effectively at senior executive and board levels.
Strong Software Engineering Background
* Confident understanding of modern architecture, platform engineering and software best practices, even if not currently hands‑on.
To find out more about Computer Futures please visit
Computer Futures, a trading division of SThree Partnership LLP is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy | Registered office | 8 Bishopsgate, London, EC2N 4BQ, United Kingdom | Partnership Number | OC(phone number removed) England and Wales
Salary description
£135000.00 - £170000.00 per year