About
Senior engineering, with a head for the business behind it
I'm Pierre van Zyl — a senior software engineer and CTO at Good Code. Over the past six-plus years I've built backend systems, financial platforms, enterprise software, and business integrations for teams that can't afford for things to quietly break.
How I work
Clarity first, then code
I start by understanding the business problem, the constraints, and where the real risk sits. Then I build deliberately — readable systems, sensible data models, and tests around the flows that matter — so the work holds up long after launch.
What I'm strongest at
Where I add the most value
- Backend systems, APIs, and database modelling
- Financial platforms and transaction workflows
- Business and accounting integrations (e.g. Sage)
- Order matching and high-integrity data workflows
- System architecture and distributed-system debugging
- Automated testing and release confidence
Technical background
Built on real systems
My work spans complex business logic, financial transaction workflows, high-integrity data, order matching systems, and accounting integrations such as Sage. I'm comfortable moving between backend services, APIs, databases, and the architecture that ties them together.
I completed formal computer science studies through the University of the People, with focus areas including networking, databases, and distributed systems.
From business problems to reliable systems
I translate, not just implement
Before software, I spent years in business, labour relations, and client-facing roles — running meetings, improving processes, and communicating with stakeholders. That experience means I can sit with a business problem, ask the right questions, and turn vague requirements into clear technical decisions.
Current focus
As CTO at Good Code, I lead technical direction and delivery on business-critical platforms — backend systems, financial integrations, and the architecture and testing that keep them reliable. I'm most useful to teams that value senior judgement, transparent communication, and software that lasts.
Need a senior technical partner?
If you're building something that has to be reliable, I'd be glad to help you think it through.