Wayve, SVP Engineering
Company background
Wayve is a pioneering AI company reimagining autonomous driving through its “AV 2.0” approach, using deep learning and computer vision to build adaptable, scalable driving intelligence. Founded in 2017 out of Cambridge research, the company has rapidly established itself as a global leader in embodied AI. With over $250m raised and partnerships with organisations such as Ocado, ASDA and DPD, Wayve is addressing a multi-trillion dollar market opportunity as it transitions from R&D to commercialisation.
The approach
The Up Group was engaged to appoint a senior engineering leader (VP / SVP Engineering) to partner closely with founder & CEO Alex Kendall at a critical inflection point in Wayve’s journey. The mandate required a rare blend of deep technical expertise in AI/ML systems, experience scaling complex engineering organisations, and the ability to transition a research-led business into a product-driven, commercially focused company.
Given the highly confidential nature of the search and the competitive landscape, The Up Group executed a tightly controlled, global search strategy. The team mapped and engaged senior engineering leaders across leading AI, big data and software organisations including companies such as Meta, Google, Apple, Databricks and others.
The process balanced precision and pace: candidates were engaged discreetly, while ongoing calibration with the Wayve leadership team ensured alignment on technical depth, leadership capability and cultural fit.
The impact
The search resulted in the appointment of Silvius Rus as SVP Engineering, a highly experienced engineering leader with deep expertise in large-scale software systems, AI infrastructure and organisational scaling. His appointment provided Wayve with the leadership required to professionalise its engineering function, increase delivery velocity and build a world-class, high-performance engineering culture.
This hire was pivotal as Wayve moved from proof-of-concept to proof-of-value, enabling the company to better translate cutting-edge research into scalable, production-ready technology. By strengthening engineering leadership at this stage, Wayve is well-positioned to accelerate commercial deployment, deepen partnerships and continue its trajectory toward becoming a defining company in autonomous mobility and embodied AI.
