Director, Software Engineering, ITC at Nike in Karnataka, India

About Nike

Nike stands as the world's leading sports brand, relentlessly pursuing innovation to serve athletes*. With a mission to empower millions through data and technology, Nike's Data & AI (DAI) team builds secure, intelligent, scalable platforms. These platforms drive informed decisions and personalized experiences for users globally. Joining Nike means contributing to a legacy of excellence in retail tech, where cutting-edge engineering meets athletic performance. In Karnataka, India, Nike's technology hub fuels this innovation, offering a dynamic environment for engineering leaders.

Role Overview

As Director, Software Engineering, ITC, you will lead multiple teams in architecting robust data platforms and enterprise-scale services. This senior leadership role demands a visionary engineer with deep expertise in distributed systems, cloud-native architectures, AI/ML, and data governance. Reporting to senior stakeholders, you will shape Nike's technical roadmap, champion innovation, and deliver high-impact solutions that align with business goals. Based in Karnataka, India, this position offers the chance to influence global initiatives while embodying Nike's core values of clarity, accountability, and trust.

Key Responsibilities

Your role will encompass strategic leadership and hands-on guidance:

• Lead management and growth of software engineering teams focused on data platforms and services.
• Drive design and implementation of SDKs, APIs, and microservices for complex data analytics needs.
• Collaborate with product managers, architects, and leaders to execute forward-thinking technical roadmaps.
• Uphold engineering excellence through best practices in development, governance, and observability.
• Foster innovation, continuous learning, and adoption of new technologies like agentic workflows and AI/LLM advancements.
• Ensure alignment with Nike's objectives, including cloud cost optimization and data security.
• Deliver transparent updates to leadership on progress, challenges, and outcomes.

Qualifications & Requirements

Experience

Seeking candidates with 15+ years in software development, including distributed systems, cloud-native tech, and data platforms. Minimum 5 years in leadership, with proven hiring, mentoring, and growth track records.

Technical Expertise

Deep knowledge in AWS, Azure, GCP, or OCI; AI/ML technologies; data pipelines; metadata management; and governance. Familiarity with agentic workflows and build vs. buy decisions for AI tools.

Education & Soft Skills

Bachelor’s in Computer Science or related (Master’s/PhD preferred). Exceptional communication, strategic thinking, and stakeholder management skills essential.

Benefits & Perks

Nike offers premium compensation, estimated at INR 65-95 lakhs annually for this role, reflecting senior leadership in India's retail-tech sector. Enjoy comprehensive health insurance, retirement plans, and employee discounts on iconic products. Unlimited PTO, flexible work options, and wellness programs support work-life balance. Parental leave, learning stipends, and global mobility opportunities enhance your package.

Career Growth

At Nike, leadership roles like this propel you toward VP and C-suite positions. Mentor high-potential teams, influence global strategy, and access executive coaching. Nike University provides ongoing training in AI, cloud, and leadership, ensuring you stay ahead in tech evolution.

Why Join Us

Be part of Nike's transformation through data and AI, impacting millions of athletes. In Karnataka, collaborate with world-class talent in a culture valuing innovation and inclusivity. Model Nike's maxims: communicate effectively, build trust, and do the right thing. This role offers scale, impact, and the prestige of Nike on your resume.

Role FAQs

What experience is required?

15+ years in software engineering, 5+ in leadership, with expertise in cloud, AI/ML, and data platforms.

Is relocation support available?

Nike provides relocation assistance for eligible candidates to Karnataka, India.

What is the work environment like?

Dynamic, collaborative, hybrid model emphasizing innovation and athlete-centric tech.

How does Nike support professional development?

Through mentoring, training budgets, and clear paths to senior leadership.

Apply now to lead Nike's engineering future. (Word count: 1127)