Dan Laffan
Software Engineering Leader | Ruby on Rails | SaaS Platforms
About Me
I'm an engineering leader with 10+ years building and managing software teams. I specialise in Ruby on Rails SaaS platforms, and I've led teams of up to 14 people across development, QA, UX, infrastructure, and InfoSec — building products used by enterprise clients including Lego, CERN, Qatar Airways, UBS, and Sainsbury's.
I have an unusual background. Before moving into software engineering, I spent two decades in financial leadership — Chartered Accountant (FCA) with Ernst & Young, progressing through Financial Controller, CFO, COO, and interim CEO roles. That gives me a perspective most technical leaders don't have: I understand P&L alignment, enterprise client relationships, and what it takes to run a business, not just a team.
Get in Touch
I'm currently exploring Engineering Manager, Head of Engineering, and CTO opportunities.
Connect with me on LinkedIn or make direct contact on the 'Get in touch' page.
What I Do
I build and lead engineering teams that deliver reliable, scalable SaaS products. I focus on reducing technical debt, building team cohesion, driving cross-team improvements, and making sound architectural decisions that balance pragmatism with long-term scalability.
Background
My career spans software engineering leadership, C-level business roles, and hands-on Rails development. I hold a degree from Trinity College Dublin, am a Fellow of Chartered Accountants Ireland, and recently completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Cybersecurity.
Beyond Work
I'm involved in community and charity work, and have interests in video production and sound engineering.