The Software Engineer Lead - Middleware will be part of a core engineering team leading new product developments for VW Group. They will contribute to the design of embedded systems, networking protocols, and middleware platforms enabling efficient data exchange across diverse hardware and software environments. This is a high-impact role that requires technical leadership, strong software architecture skills, and the ability to work cross-functionally with system architects, platform teams, and product engineering. This role is the primary point of contact and accountability for IT data and middleware integration services and support (life cycle planning of business data integration needs through strategize, architect, design/build/procure, deploy, operate, evolve, support, and retire) for defined products (Data Warehouse, ODS, Business Objects, SAS, Tableau) and platforms (Oracle, SQL Server, Informatica, Biztalk) for both US and Canada. This includes existing on premises services / support and future cloud services / support. Expected to create a well-run team that can sustain credibility with business users while working directly with and adhering to development and support best practices and Data Governance standards and processes. This will require investing time to learn the unique data needs of each area and to proactively advocate how data integration and middleware technology can be best used to further the business goals.