We're working with a growing AI SaaS company based in Ghent looking to appoint a Head of Engineering to lead the technical evolution of its platform while guiding a small, high-performing engineering team.
On behalf of our client, we are searching for a hands-on engineering leader who enjoys balancing technical architecture with people leadership. This role is ideal for someone who still loves building and shaping systems, but who also thrives when mentoring engineers and helping teams deliver great products.
You will take ownership of the backend architecture and technical direction of the platform, ensuring it remains scalable and ready for the next phase of growth.
At the same time, you will lead and support a team of approximately six engineers, creating an environment where people can do their best work and continue developing their skills.
This is a hands-on leadership role – you will stay close to the codebase while shaping engineering and architecture decisions. The platform is built primarily using Python, FastAPI, TypeScript and runs on Google Cloud Platform.
Responsibilities
Technical Leadership
* Own and evolve the backend architecture of the company’s AI platform.
* Design scalable and reliable services using Python and FastAPI.
* Ensure the platform operates efficiently and securely on Google Cloud Platform.
* Guide architectural decisions around performance, scalability, and reliability.
* Maintain high standards around code quality, testing, and engineering best practices.
Team Leadership
* Lead and mentor a team of ~6 engineers across backend and platform development.
* Foster a collaborative, supportive engineering culture.
* Support team members with technical growth, feedback, and career development.
* Help prioritise work and ensure projects are delivered effectively.
Collaboration
* Work closely with product and leadership teams to translate ideas into technical roadmaps and deliverable solutions.
* Balance long-term platform vision with practical delivery needs.
Your Profile
* Proven experience building backend systems in Python.
* Experience designing APIs and services using FastAPI or similar frameworks.
* Strong experience working with Google Cloud Platform or comparable cloud environments.
* Previous experience leading or mentoring engineers (formal management experience is a plus, but not essential).
Mindset
* Hands-on and pragmatic technical leader.
* Comfortable switching between architecture discussions, coding, and people leadership.
* Someone who values clean architecture, thoughtful engineering practices, and continuous improvement.
* Strong communicator who enjoys working closely with both technical and non-technical colleagues.
The Offer
* Shape the technical direction of a modern AI SaaS platform.
* Work with a small, talented engineering team where your impact is visible.
* Combine hands-on engineering with people leadership in a company that values thoughtful, human-centered technology development.
* Flexible hybrid work with a brand new office in Ghent.
* Up to €100k for the right applicant (dependent on interview process).
* Full package including mobility options.