Head of Architecture

We are seeking an experienced Head of Architecture to help us build a cutting-edge control stack for industrial scale quantum computers.

You will be leading an interdisciplinary team of architects and IP engineers whose mission it is to create state-of-the-art control systems tailored to the quantum computing market.  

To scale our next generation of systems to 1000 qubits and beyond, Qblox will design its new technology from the ground up. As such you will collaborate closely with heads of other departments, like 'strategy and roadmap', to help define company/department strategies and facilitate those by leading/building the architecture team and by defining/implementing the required processes. Where possible, you will use your expertise to steer architectural designs and decisions.

We are looking for an experienced Head of Architecture to lead the team of three architects responsible for the ideation and high-level design of our new products. Furthermore, you will lead and work closely with the IP team, responsible for identifying inventions and filing patent applications. You will report directly to the CTO.

You will need to have experience with the creation of high-tech hardware and software products. You know the processes and steps required to formalize these products and have extensive experience in documentation of the steps taken. Furthermore, you have experience with filing patent applications and monitoring the patent landscape.

Overview of the role

• Lead the architecture and IP team and collaborate with our Head of Product and Roadmap Leaders and Architects to help define and refine the architectural vision and strategy.
• Lead the team responsible for design and implementation of scalable, reliable, and secure solutions, ensuring alignment with business objectives.
• Evaluate and recommend tools, technologies, and processes that support our transformation from both architectural and cost perspectives.
• Provide leadership and guidance to Architects to ensure best practices in architecture and design.
• Develop and maintain architectural standards, guidelines, and documentation to support ongoing development and operational activities.
• Monitor and optimize the performance, reliability, and scalability of our applications.
• Stay current with industry trends and emerging technologies to ensure our solutions remain competitive and innovative.

Enough about us, what about you?
To really enjoy the role, we anticipate that you will have the following demonstrated skills:

Strategic leadership: The ability to develop and communicate a clear vision, set strategic goals, and inspire teams to achieve them. This includes making informed decisions, allocating resources effectively, and adapting strategies to meet evolving business needs.

Operational excellence: A strong understanding of operational processes and systems, coupled with the ability to optimize workflows, minimize costs, and maximize efficiency. This competency involves implementing best practices, continuous improvement initiatives, and performance metrics to drive operational excellence.

Cross-functional collaboration: The capacity to collaborate effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders across different functional areas. This includes fostering strong relationships, resolving conflicts, and aligning goals and priorities to achieve collective success.

Change management: The skill to navigate and lead organizational change initiatives, whether it involves process improvements, technology implementations, or organizational restructuring. This competency encompasses effectively communicating changes, managing resistance, and facilitating smooth transitions.

Decision making and problem solving: The capability to analyze complex situations, evaluate options, and make timely and effective decisions. This includes assessing risks, considering implications, and implementing solutions to address challenges and capitalize on opportunities.

Additionally:

• Previous experience as a Head of Architecture or equivalent leadership role in a high-tech, R&D-driven industry (e.g., semiconductor, radar systems, high speed electronics, electron microscopy, …).
• Extensive experience with creating architectures for complex-embedded systems.
• Extensive experience with recruitment and building an organization, preferably in a startup/ scaleup environment.
• Experience within one or more of the following domains: high-speed electronic design, RF design system engineering, computer engineering, physics or quantum computing.
• Excellent people management, communication and problem solving skills.
• Experience with Agile and Agile transformation.
• Experience with filing of patent applications.
• Experience managing IP portfolio’s.
• Bsc or MSc degree in Engineering, Physics, Computer Science or a relevant field.
• Proven experience as an Architect or in a similar role, with a strong understanding of hardware and software design principles and computing.
• Strong knowledge of infrastructure management, DevOps practices, and automation tools.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to make sound architectural decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.