Michail Polatoglou

As a dedicated Vice President of Engineering, I partner with global enterprises to refine their technology strategies and develop tailored solutions that span both web and native applications, utilising a wide array of technologies. My role involves integrating with existing engineering teams or aiding in the recruitment of top‐tier talent to establish a solid technical base. My leadership is characterised by a strong emphasis on tapping into the distinct strengths and collective expertise of our team members, ensuring alignment with the broader business goals. This approach not only drives technological advancements but also supports sustainable growth and innovation within the company. My technology‐agnostic stance and close collaboration with executive teams and board members have allowed me to consistently deliver and implement successful applications used by millions. These projects not only enhance business operations but also enable companies to excel in the digital arena. Key projects span various sectors, including FinTech, PropTech, Maritime, Tourism, and Charity Fundraising, underscoring my versatility and commitment to driving technological innovation in diverse fields.

Leading a team of 20 developers in creating a new embeddable headless e‐commerce solution that integrated inside native mobile apps pio‐ neering commerce as a service. Responsible for the architecture, technical decisions and overall tech strategy of Wundr working closely with the rest of the executives and board members. Based in Python, GraphQL, PostgreSQL and Typescript/VueJS. Developed a complete solution from inception to a horizontally scaled application based on Docker capable of serving millions of customers.

Responsible for architecting and delivering the UK’s first automated tenant referencing system from the ground up using test driven FOSS technologies and managing a team of developers in the implementation process. Technologies used include Laravel, PHP and VueJS. Designed the hosting environment using a load balanced horizontally scalable environment based on Ubuntu/nginx and MySQL. Composed internal/external documentation for public REST API. Following the delivery of the project, the company was successfully acquired by an insurance group that integrated the tool into their existing portfolio.

Responsible for delivering highly optimised and secure enterprise solutions based on Laravel and Drupal 7/8 for large industry clients and government departments. Composing high and low level technical documents as well as task planning for build sprints. Providing accurate quoting and participating in tender responses. Mentoring and managing other developers within the team. Giving pitch presentations to potential and existing clients. Led the technical architecture of the developer tools based on Linux/Docker and CI/CD pipelines for zero downtime deployments with rollback capabilities.

Following the division of Emerge Group into three distinct agencies, I transitioned to AF Oliver, where I assumed a key role in the development of custom PHP content management systems using Laravel. I was also tasked with delivering robust Drupal 6/7 and WordPress websites, including crafting custom modules and plugins tailored to specific client needs. Additionally, I provided ongoing support for a diverse portfolio of existing clients across Drupal, Magento, and WordPress platforms, ensuring high performance and client satisfaction.

As a senior developer, I specialised in creating both the back‐end and front‐end components of client websites using WordPress, Drupal, and Magento. My role involved closely collaborating with design and content teams to ensure a harmonious integration of all elements. Through this collaborative approach, I successfully met diverse requirements and helped deliver tailored solutions. My work supported notable clients such as John Lewis, Westfield, and Marshall Amps, contributing to their digital presence and operational success.

Headed custom build for new e-shop supervising the Web Department at Muc-Off based on Prestashop with innovative UX using the Smarty templating engine.

Headed website redesign and development including custom platform e-shop, integrated with accounting software for stock control. Created distributor portal for easy media, copy, ad approval and administration of B2B side of business.