I'm Mike Skaife aka Skoof
My Story
I'm a hands-on technical leader with 15+ years of experience working in and around the Manchester tech community, using multiple technologies, across multiple industries. I can architect and build systems, lead teams and define tech strategies.
I'm currently working as Head of Technology at a growing fintech company, combining hands-on software engineering with strategic leadership.
At Jaguar Land Rover, I was employee #1 as Principal Software Engineer at the Manchester software hub, scaling it from zero to 100+ engineers across three continents, delivering platforms generating millions in revenue.
As Head of Engineering at UP Fitness, I led the entire technology function through PE investment, launched new revenue streams, cut OpEx by £100k+ and learned what investors really look for during due diligence.
I'm also separately bootstrapping my own tech business delivering several SaaS products.
p.s. Skoof is a daft nickname I've had since university when someone couldn't pronounce my surname correctly. And yes I'm well aware of the less than flattering definition of that word on Urban Dictionary! Look it up if you fancy a laugh...
Trusted by Leaders
"Mike brought unmatched software craftsmanship and DevOps expertise to the team, working with senior business stakeholders to ensure close alignment of business strategy to technical strategy. Mike always has results in mind with a thoroughness and attention to detail that is all too uncommon. Ultimately, I think the greatest compliment I can pay Mike is that he is the most innovative and technically gifted engineering leader I have come across."
"Mike creates an environment of trust and support, which makes individuals and teams more confident and effective. He knows what good looks like and is able to translate that into practical steps for both leaders and teams. He combines strategic vision with the pragmatism needed to get things done, always ensuring people are brought along on the journey. This mix of credibility, empathy, and delivery focus makes Mike exceptionally well suited to organisations navigating growth and change. He brings credibility, empathy, and delivery focus to create lasting improvements."
Let's Connect
Interested in discussing technology leadership, engineering best practices, or the Manchester tech scene? I'd love to connect
Get in Touch