Head of Software Development

• Lead and manage the IT development and testing teams, setting clear objectives aligned to organisational IT strategy.
• Define and maintain systems architecture and applications strategy, ensuring alignment with business needs.
• Oversee the full software development life cycle including design, build, testing, deployment, and ongoing support.
• Ensure third-party applications are used effectively and minimise unnecessary bespoke development.
• Manage resources to support project delivery, system changes, and ongoing application support.
• Collaborate with project teams to design and implement high-quality solutions.
• Manage build and testing phases of IT projects, including integration's and upgrades.
• Provide senior technical input into solution analysis and design.
• Develop and enforce development standards, policies, and best practices.
• Build strong relationships with stakeholders across the organisation.
• Drive continuous improvement in development processes and service delivery.
• Monitor risks, issues, and progress across delivery pipelines.
• Lead performance management, coaching, and development of team members.

The successful candidate will combine strong technical credibility in the Microsoft/.NET ecosystem with proven experience managing development teams, delivering complex enterprise systems, and working closely with senior stakeholders to align IT delivery with business strategy. Experience within University / Higher Education is a must., * Previous experience as a Head of Development, Head of Software, Head of Solutions or similar.

• Proven experience leading and managing software development teams in a senior or executive role.
• Strong hands on background in .NET enterprise web application development.
• Experience overseeing the full software development life cycle.
• Demonstrated ability to define and implement development processes and standards.
• Strong SQL and database design knowledge.
• Experience working with shared source control and modern development practices.
• Ability to assess technical risks and implement effective mitigation strategies.
• Experience estimating delivery timelines and managing tight deadlines.
• Strong documentation skills at both technical and functional levels.
• Experience contributing to IT strategy and architecture planning.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to translate business requirements into technical solutions.
• Strong leadership, interpersonal, and conflict resolution skills.

Desirable Experience

• Formal project management experience.
• Exposure to modern software delivery methodologies (Agile/Hybrid).
• Experience managing third-party vendor systems and integration's.
• Track record of driving innovation and process improvement.

Personal Attributes

• Strategic thinker with strong organisational skills.
• Positive and adaptable approach to change.
• Collaborative leadership style focused on team success.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a complex environment.
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

Spectrum IT Recruitment (South) Limited is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy., Established in 2008, Spectrum IT is a leading Software and Technology specific recruitment agency, providing permanent and contract IT resource for businesses. Our team of around 30 employees are based on the University of Southampton Science Park, a key hub for technology on the South Coast. Who We Can Help Spectrum IT works with a wide cross section of businesses, from start-ups to multinationals. 95% of placements are within Software focused businesses, or where Software is key to the business model. Typically, around 200 different businesses are supported annually, with more than 900 candidates placed. How We Work We bring together talented IT professionals with businesses of all sizes. Our extensive experience can help your business with single hires right through to building large software development project teams of 50+. Regular engagement with the IT community enables us to keep up to date with the ever-changing IT landscape.