Head of Systems & Software Engineering

Job Description

At Booker, we’re building technology that helps our colleagues do their best work and supports our customers every day. As Head of Systems & Software Engineering, you’ll play a key role in shaping how we design, deliver and run our technology now and into the future.

This is a senior engineering leadership role where you’ll lead other engineering managers, set technical direction and create an environment where teams can thrive. You’ll work closely with senior stakeholders across Booker and the wider Tesco Group, driving technology that enables business growth at pace while staying grounded in real customer and colleague needs.

We’re looking for someone who brings strong technical judgement, inclusive leadership and a collaborative mindset, someone who can turn strategy into action and help our teams deliver great outcomes together.

• Lead and inspire a high‑performing engineering organisation, managing and developing engineering managers and senior technical talent
• Define and drive the engineering strategy across your domain, aligning with Booker and Tesco Group technology direction
• Create a culture of ownership, quality and continuous improvement, empowering teams to make sound technical decisions
• Oversee the operation, enhancement and integration of complex systems, including internally built platforms and third‑party solutions
• Deliver complex change programmes and large‑scale initiatives that add real value for customers and colleagues
• Own and manage opex and capex budgets, planning future investment to support long‑term business outcomes
• Build strong partnerships with senior leaders, product teams, and external suppliers to deliver the right solutions at the right cost
• Champion modern engineering practices, security, reliability and sustainable ways of working

• Experience leading other managers within a software or technology organisation
• A strong background in designing, delivering and operating complex software systems at scale
• The ability to take a strategic, long‑term view while still making clear, confident decisions day to day
• Proven experience working with budgets, suppliers and senior stakeholders
• A collaborative, inclusive leadership style that values diversity of thought and helps people do their best work
• Solid technical understanding across areas such as software development, system design, infrastructure, security and operations
• Curiosity, resilience and a desire to keep learning in a fast‑moving technology environment

Booker is the UK's leading food & drink wholesaler. We are privileged to serve independent retailers, caterers and small businesses, from locations across the country. We operate over 190 cash and carry branches, eight distribution centres, five Best Food Logistics sites, as well as six support centre locations across the UK.

Diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) at Booker means that whoever you are and whatever your background, we always want you to feel represented and that you can be yourself at work. In short, we’re a place where Everyone’s Welcome.

We know life looks a little different for each of us. That’s why at Booker and Best, we always welcome conversations about flexible working. Some people are at the start of their careers, some want the freedom to do the things they love. Others are going through life-changing moments like becoming a carer, nearing retirement, adapting to parenthood, or something else. So, talk to us throughout your application about how we may be able to support you.

We’re proud that Booker is a Disability Confident Committed employer and we’re committed to providing a fully inclusive and accessible recruitment process. For further information on the accessibility support you can expect, please contact recruitment@bookergroup.com

Please note

We can only accept candidates over the age of 18 if the role requires working before 6:15 am or after 9:45 pm or involves working in areas such as the warehouse, beers, wines & spirits, and driving roles.

On the occasions where we have high volumes of applicants, some roles may close earlier than the advertised end date in order for us to manage all of the applicants appropriately. We will only be able to offer individual feedback to those candidates who attend an interview.

*Booker Group is part of Tesco plc, however, is operated separately from the core Tesco business and as such the benefits offered will be different from those offered at Tesco*

For more information about us please visit www.bookergroupjobs.co.uk