Director, Software Engineering (AI Platform Development) - job 2 of 20

The Director, Software Engineering at Visa is responsible for leading strategic initiatives within the Payment Fraud Disruption team. This includes designing and developing machine learning platforms, driving excellence in engineering practices, and leading a multi-disciplinary team of data engineers, software developers, and AI & ML experts. The role emphasizes creating impactful solutions that enhance fraud prevention efforts while fostering an inclusive team culture.

Candidates for the Director, Software Engineering role at Visa should possess a robust engineering background, substantial leadership experience, and a passion for solving complex challenges within the payments or technology sectors. A proven track record in software development, particularly in machine learning, and the ability to influence product strategy are also critical for success in this position.

Visa encourages an inclusive and collaborative team culture for the Director, Software Engineering position. Leaders are expected to build a culture of ownership and accountability, emphasize career growth for team members, and ensure a positive work environment that motivates staff and promotes innovation within the Payment Fraud Disruption team.

The Director, Software Engineering position at Visa operates under a hybrid work model, allowing employees to alternate between remote work and office presence. Employees are typically expected to work from the office three days a week, providing a balance between collaboration opportunities and flexible work arrangements tailored to business needs.

In the Director, Software Engineering role at Visa, you will significantly shape the company's fraud prevention strategies by delivering fit-for-purpose products and driving the adoption of technologies like Gen AI. Your leadership will not only enhance product capabilities but will also facilitate accelerated time-to-market for innovative fraud detection solutions that safeguard the integrity of Visa's payment systems.

It's important to prioritize based on impact and alignment with strategic goals. I always start by closely collaborating with product teams to understand what’s most critical for our stakeholders, and then I use established frameworks, such as Agile methodologies, to ensure our team is aligned and efficient.

Leading a diverse team requires understanding the unique strengths of each member. I ensure regular check-ins and foster an open environment where everyone can share their ideas. I recall a project where our varied skills led to innovative solutions, proving that inclusivity drives success.

I believe in implementing a systematic approach using best practices such as Agile or Scrum. This includes defining clear milestones, regular feedback cycles, and continuous integration to ensure high-quality deliverables while adapting to changing requirements quickly.

Staying ahead in technology requires continuous learning. I regularly attend industry conferences, engage with thought leaders on social media, and read relevant publications. I also encourage my team to share insights and innovations, creating a culture of learning.

In a past role, we faced a significant security breach threat. I spearheaded a collaborative initiative that involved assembling a task force of security, engineering, and data science experts. Together, we developed an innovative solution that not only mitigated the threat but also improved our overall security protocols.

Effective communication is key to stakeholder collaboration. I establish regular update meetings and utilize project management tools to track progress. This transparency builds trust and encourages stakeholders to provide valuable input throughout the project lifecycle.

I focus on a mix of quantitative and qualitative metrics. Quantitative metrics include the number of successful deployments and time spent in the development cycle. Qualitative feedback from team members and clients, along with project outcomes, helps gauge the overall success of initiatives.

Mentoring is about understanding individual goals and providing tailored support. I conduct one-on-one sessions regularly to discuss their aspirations and provide resources or opportunities for growth, creating a personalized development plan that aligns with their career paths.

Feedback is essential for growth; I encourage a culture where open, honest feedback is normalized. I regularly solicit feedback on my leadership approach and ensure my team feels safe to share their thoughts, creating an environment where everyone can thrive.

Balancing technical leadership and administrative tasks requires proper delegation and time management. I prioritize my time to focus on high-impact activities, while trusting my team with day-to-day operations, ensuring they have the autonomy they need to excel.