Head of Engineering → VP Engineering

A realistic transition from Head of Engineering to VP Engineering: transferable skills, the gaps to close, a step-by-step learning plan and alternative routes. Estimated skill overlap 96%. Difficulty: Easy.

Difficulty: Easy3 stepsDuration: 4 to 8 monthsOverlap: 96%

Transition from Head of Engineering to VP Engineering.

Transferable skills

  • Engineering leadership
  • Strategy
  • Org design
  • Hiring
  • Delivery at scale
  • Stakeholder management

Step-by-step learning plan

  1. 1. Build on your Head of Engineering experience

    2–4 weeks

    Leverage

    • Engineering leadership
    • Strategy
    • Org design
    • Hiring

    Map transferable skills — Engineering leadership, Strategy, Org design — against what a VP Engineering needs.

  2. 2. Practise VP Engineering work in real conditions

    4–8 weeks

    Ship a portfolio project or take on VP Engineering tasks at work.

  3. 3. Get certified and position yourself as a VP Engineering

    4–8 weeks

    Technologies

    SAFe Program ConsultantEngineering LeadershipTOGAF 9 Certified

    Update your CV and LinkedIn around VP Engineering, then apply to target roles.

Alternative routes