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.
As a leader, I focus on clarity, context, and principled execution. Today, I work independently with early-stage companies and emerging engineering leaders—helping them grow with intention, communicate effectively, and lead with confidence.
What I Bring
Proven leadership in AI product delivery
I've led teams building and deploying traditional and generative AI-driven products into production on time & within budget
Org design that grows with you
I've built and rolled out career tracks, adapted teams to meet evolving business needs, and led high engagement engineering leadership sessions to strengthen the org and individuals leading them
Connecting eng strategy to business strategy
I've guided engineering teams in translating their work into language that strikes a chord with business stakeholders
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
Navigate SOC 2 Attestation with Confidence
Select, Onboard, and Manage the Right Third-Party Partners
People & Leadership
Org Design & Strategy
Operations & Compliance
Melissa Whitehead
Contact me for details about services I offer or simply to stay connected.
