Protocol Lead

Protocol Lead

We're assisting a very well-funded startup in the blockchain space with their search for a Protocol Lead. They acquire traditional businesses and transform them by implementing blockchain rails. This role will work on a hybrid schedule in the SoHo NY office. What you'll do:

As Head of Engineering, you will be responsible for building and managing a high-caliber engineering team, selecting and integrating core technologies, and ensuring the reliability, security, and performance of on-chain systems across the organization.

Key Responsibilities:

• Technical Architecture & Execution: Own the end-to-end technical architecture and ensure the scalable and secure implementation of blockchain infrastructure across portfolio companies.
• Engineering Leadership: Build, manage, and mentor a high-performing engineering team responsible for core infrastructure, protocol integrations, and on-chain applications.
• Blockchain Implementation: Coordinate with the blockchain "rip and replace" strategy, ensuring the integration of blockchain into legacy systems with minimal disruption and maximal efficiency.
• On-Chain User Experience: Spearhead the design and development of on-chain user applications that offer seamless onboarding experiences, connect to the client's proprietary blockchain, and facilitate the adoption of new products.
• Collaboration with Core Product Team: Work closely with the product team to develop and execute the product strategy with a focus on integrating and scaling decentralized solutions for acquired users.
• Market Insights & Innovation: Stay ahead of industry trends, ensuring that product offerings are innovative, competitive, and aligned with the needs of both users and the blockchain ecosystem.
• Security & Reliability: Ensure systems meet the highest security standards through rigorous auditing, formal verification, and continuous monitoring. Implement DevOps and CI/CD best practices to support uptime, resilience, and deployment velocity.
• KPIs & Performance Metrics: Define key product success metrics and ensure continuous tracking, reporting, and improvement.

What You'll Bring:

• 5+ years of experience as a Software Engineer, Head of Engineering, Engineering Manager, or similar role
• Experience at a top-tier scaled AI or Fintech company
• Must be a product-focused engineer who owned and built something real for customers
• Must have some leadership experience leading engineers
• Experience with fintech/payments, stablecoin ecosystems, digital wallets, and tokenomics.
• Strong systems thinking skills.
• Ability to architect and implement secure blockchain infrastructure.
• Some Solidity and Go experience.
• Hands-on familiarity with blockchain systems (EVM, Avalanche, Cosmos, Layer 2s).
• Exceptional leadership and communication skills.
• Customer-focused approach to engineering.