Vice President - Research & Development at Colossus, Incorporated in Austin, Texas

Job Description:

Caliber Public Safety is seeking an experienced and dynamic Vice President of Research & Development to join our Executive Team. This leadership role offers the opportunity to make an impact by developing technology that supports first responders and enhances public safety. This role blends business, technical, and leadership skills. It requires a strategic mindset, solid product vision, project management skills, and financial acumen. The VP of R&D will oversee the software research and development process, drive innovation, ensure alignment with company strategy, and foster cross-functional partnerships to deliver best-in-class solutions for our customers.

We are looking for a leader who rolls up their sleeves and leads by example. A leader who thrives in an inclusive, team-oriented environment, values creativity, and is excited to shape the future of public safety technology. Whether you have experience leading large R&D teams or have guided innovative software solutions in a fast-paced environment, we want to hear from diverse perspectives that can bring fresh ideas to our leadership team.

What’s Your Impact:

Strategic Planning

• Define and execute the overall R&D roadmap based on market needs and business targets.


• Set priorities and allocate resources to maximize efficiency and effectiveness in software development.


• Drive AI integration and world class design into Caliber Public Safety’s platforms to enhance automation, predictive analytics, and operational efficiencies for public safety agencies.

Technical Leadership

• Provide technical guidance for the design and architecture of current and next generation software products.


• Oversee the execution of multiple R&D projects, ensuring adherence to timelines, quality standards, and milestones.


• Implement Agile best practices and refine development processes for optimal efficiency.


• Stay updated on the latest software development tools, frameworks, and methodologies.


• Ensure the team leverages the most appropriate technologies, including AI-driven automation and predictive analytics, to enhance product performance and scalability.


• Implement robust quality control processes, including automation, to ensure software reliability. Drive best practices for software testing and continuous improvement.

Team Management

• Inspire, mentor, and support software development teams, including architects, product management, engineers, and quality associates.


• Recruit, retain, and develop top talent within the R&D team.


• Cultivate a collaborative, inclusive, and innovative culture that supports work-life balance, encourages innovative thinking and employees feel valued.

Budgeting & Resource Allocation

• Ownership of all financial aspects of the Caliber R&D team, such as accurate forecasting, reconciliation, analysis, and actionable insights.


• Manage the R&D budget. Prioritize projects based on impact and return on investment.


• Optimize resource allocation to maximize productivity and product innovation.

Cross-Functional

• Partner with Operations, Sales, Marketing, and Customer Success to ensure R&D efforts align with business goals.


• Foster excellent communication and synergy across departments to drive product success.

What We’re Looking For:

• 5+ years of experience leading software development organizations.


• Deep knowledge of Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC) and Agile methodologies.


• Proven technical expertise in software development, a passion for AI-driven solutions, architecture, and engineering best practices.


• Ability to guide and manage teams in a fast-paced, innovative environment.


• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.


• Strategic thinker with the ability to translate business needs into AI-enhanced and next generation technical roadmaps.


• Market awareness and knowledge of emerging trends in public safety software, AI, and technology.


• Exceptional initiative with advanced analytical, diagnostic, and problem-solving skills.

What We’d Love to See:

• Background in Public Safety or Public Safety software


• Experience with Cloud-based and Premise software solutions


• Scrum Master Certification


• PMP certification


• Experience operating an R&D P&L.

Why Join Caliber Public Safety:

• Head a dynamic and forward-thinking R&D team in a growing industry.


• Work remotely with in a flexible and collaborative environment.


• Be part of a mission-driven organization creating technology that helps first responders and communities.


• Shape the future of AI-driven customer engagement in the public safety and emergency response industry.


• Competitive compensation, benefits, and opportunities for career growth.