Hybrid opportunity at
VercelHead of Solutions Architecture, Startups
Vercel is seeking a Head of Solutions Architecture to direct and expand its global technical sales organization focused on startups. The company provides a platform utilized…
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About This Role
Vercel is seeking a Head of Solutions Architecture to direct and expand its global technical sales organization focused on startups. The company provides a platform utilized by major organizations and millions of developers to ship and execute software using its core platform, Next.js, and AI stack. In this role, you will lead a team of Solutions Architects, establish standards for technical excellence throughout the sales cycle, and guide staff through…
Job Description
Vercel is seeking a Head of Solutions Architecture to direct and expand its global technical sales organization focused on startups. The company provides a platform utilized by major organizations and millions of developers to ship and execute software using its core platform, Next.js, and AI stack. In this role, you will lead a team of Solutions Architects, establish standards for technical excellence throughout the sales cycle, and guide staff through complex deals and strategic accounts.
This position requires direct involvement in critical client interactions, such as architecture reviews, migration strategies, and executive presentations. Additionally, you will convert field patterns into standardized plays, channel user feedback back into the engineering group, and manage recruiting, budgeting, staffing, and organizational planning. You will report directly to the Global Head of Field Engineering while collaborating closely with sales leadership and other internal departments.
This hybrid role operates out of company offices in San Francisco, Austin, or New York, requiring an in-office schedule of three days per week. It is well-suited for an experienced technical leader with a strong background in pre-sales and modern software development workflows who wants to impact how emerging web and AI products are built.
Responsibilities
- Lead, develop, and manage the global Startups Solutions Architecture team
- Ensure technical excellence throughout the pre-sales cycle
- Provide hands-on support for key accounts including presentations, architecture reviews, and migration plans
- Oversee and coach Solutions Architecture engagement on strategic accounts and critical deals
- Partner with the engineering organization to supply product feedback gathered from the field
- Create repeatable plays based on trends observed across the team
- Track and report performance metrics quarterly to sales and field engineering leadership
- Handle organizational planning, staffing, budgeting, and recruiting responsibilities
Requirements
- More than 10 years of experience in Solutions Engineering, Sales Engineering, or comparable technical pre-sales roles
- At least 5 years of experience in a formal leadership position
- Strong background in modern web technologies including JavaScript, React, Next.js, Node.js, APIs, and cloud infrastructure
- Demonstrated ability to lead, coach, and scale technical teams within a high-growth environment
- Proven success working alongside enterprise and commercial customers across various industries
- Solid understanding of modern software development workflows such as CI/CD, DevOps, and frontend frameworks
- Experience collaborating with Sales, Product, and Engineering departments to drive customer success
Qualifications
- Experience working with Vercel, Next.js, or similar frontend frameworks
- Experience leading Solutions Architecture teams at a high-growth developer tool or cloud infrastructure company
- Expertise in developer tooling, edge computing, or performance optimization
- Comfort presenting at conferences, webinars, or large-scale customer events
Core Skills
Benefits
- Competitive compensation package including equity
- Inclusive healthcare package
- Mentorship opportunities and event sponsorship for skill and network building
- Flexible time off
- Necessary work gear provided along with a work-from-home budget to outfit your workspace
- Eligibility for a company bonus or variable pay program depending on the role
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the location and remote policy for this role?
This is a hybrid position based out of San Francisco, Austin, or New York, requiring employees to be in the office three days per week.
What is the salary range for the Head of Solutions Architecture position?
The on-target earnings pay range for the San Francisco location is $382,000 to $485,000 OTE, with actual compensation determined by job-related skills, experience, and location.
Who does this position report to?
The Head of Solutions Architecture, Startups reports directly to the Global Head of Field Engineering.
What level of experience is required for applicants?
Candidates must have over 10 years of experience in technical pre-sales roles like Solutions Engineering or Sales Engineering, including at least 5 years in a formal leadership position.
Sample Interview Questions
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