Melissa Whitehead

Melissa Whitehead

Independent Engineering Leader & Consultant

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About Me

I'm a software engineering leader with over 20 years in fintech, from hands-on software engineer to executive leader. I studied Computer Science at the University of Michigan before building up a wealth of experience across different stage fintech companies.


I bring a proven track record of leading high-performing teams to deliver AI products—both traditional and generative—into production on time and within budget. My focus has always been on practical impact, ensuring that technical execution is tightly aligned with business goals. I've built engineering organizations designed to evolve alongside the company. That includes rolling out clear, scalable career frameworks, reshaping team structures to meet shifting priorities, and facilitating high-engagement leadership sessions that strengthen both individual leaders and the broader org.

Today, I work independently with early-stage companies and emerging engineering leaders—helping them grow with intention, communicate effectively, and lead with confidence.

Who I Help

I partner best with early-stage to growth-stage startups where new or emerging engineering leaders are navigating change: hiring, preparing to scale, growing pains, and everything in between.


  • Founders hiring their first engineering leaders
  • Engineering managers/directors with growing responsibilities and scope
  • Teams in need of a fresh perspective and practical tools

Supporting Engineering Leaders To...

Develop An Authentic Leadership Style

Craft an Actionable Career Framework

Build a Targeted, Effective Recruiting Strategy

Shape and Sustain a Healthy Engineering Culture

Communicate Challenging Messages with Clarity and Confidence

Understand Conway's Law—and Use It to Your Advantage

Track Engineering Investments Without Burdening Your Team

Choose and Track Metrics That Matter

Navigate SOC 2 Attestation with Confidence

Select, Onboard, and Manage the Right Third-Party Partners

Embed Best Practices Early (e.g. observability)


People & Leadership

Org Design & Strategy

Operations & Compliance

Melissa Whitehead

Contact me for details about services I offer or simply to stay connected.