Software Development Manager

The Software Development Manager is primarily responsible for translating the IT system requirements of the business into specific IT projects and managing the efforts of the internal development team and our outsourced partners in their delivery. Specifically, the Software Development Manager must project manage all IT projects/requirements under their control to ensure that systems are efficiently improved/updated without undue business interruption. Moreover, the Software Development Manager acts as a technical guide to senior managers & other business leaders to provide an insight into possible future development, a view on IT resourcing and priority issues and aid the wider IT decision making process., Manage & coach the development team taking responsibility for their work prioritisation, motivation, performance & productivity. This includes both pro-active development (project work) and re-active system fixes and updates (tickets).

• Customer Service & Project Scopes: Work with senior managers & other unit leaders to address system shortfalls. In doing so, help staff understand the relationship between their work and the systems they use i.e. promote a culture of continuous improvement by assisting staff to identify and spec system improvements or additions whilst embracing new technologies where warranted. Draft and agree appropriate project specifications for review and approval and, if approved, deliver the project using a recognised and documented approach.
• System Development & Deployment: Manage the development of company front & backend systems, instructing development staff as needed. Due to the nature of the work, the Software Development Manager may also need to direct the efforts of other internal staff included within the project. Ensure development work is carried out in a logical & time/cost efficient manner utilising our external partners where appropriate to do so. Ensure the deployment of all updates / system changes minimise any disruption to the business.
• IT Support: Provide on-going support to others throughout the business, including the provision of complex technical guidance to managers. Take part in or lead ad-hoc projects. Play a significant part in our Development Steering Committee. Ensure system documentation is up to date and relevant.
• Security: Advise and assist with our incident reporting and change control procedures. Assist senior managers shape and achieve strategic objectives originating from our Information Security Management Forum
• Reporting: Complete or oversee individual/function reporting requirements.
• Learning & Development: Identify the L&D needs of the team. Work with groups or individuals to fill these needs as required.
  
  Essential Desirable Degree educated in a relevant IT discipline with a minimum of 3 years relevant experience or good level of education (min. 3 A Levels or equivalent) with 5 or more years' proven experience. Experience must demonstrate:
• SQL development, using Stored Procedures & of supporting the development of MS SQL Server DB environments; &
• Programming experience in at least one standard language or VBA & working knowledge of .Net technologies (VB & C#.NET).
• managing IT projects, preferably of a large or long-running nature
Part or fully Microsoft Certified. Line management experience & qualification Experience of the Insurance industry

Fair and competitive basic salary
• Pension Generous pension scheme with additional "matching" option