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Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Lead Software Engineer - **Company:** Gravitas Recruitment Group (Global) Ltd - **Location:** Leeds, UK - **Experience:** Expert - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), Automation of Tests, Microsoft Azure, Continuous Integration, Relational Databases, Microsoft SQL Server, Scrum Methodology, Build Management, Microsoft Fabric, Data Management, Front End Software Development, Software Coding, Legacy Systems - **Published:** August 26, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.collegerecruiter.com/job/2815094165-lead-software-engineer ## About the Role You don't need experience with everything below, but solid depth in the core areas is essential: * Data: SQL Server (other RDBMS experience welcome) * Delivery: Agile Scrum, CI/CD (Azure DevOps), automated testing Nice to have: * Experience with modern front-end frameworks * Exposure to Microsoft Fabric or similar data platforms ## Description Lead Software Engineer - Build a New In-House Engineering Function I'm partnering with a high-growth, technology-driven organisation that's embarking on a major shift in how it builds and delivers its digital products. Historically reliant on third-party solutions, the business is now investing in its own in-house engineering capability, and they're looking for a Lead Software Engineer to help define and build this function from scratch. You'll work closely with the Technology Director and CIO, acting as the technical lead for a wide range of applications while remaining hands-on with design and development. Why this role stands out * A genuine greenfield opportunity: Rather than inheriting legacy systems and rigid processes, you'll help design the architecture, tech stack, development approach and engineering standards from day one. * A business in transformation: The company is evolving, with technology becoming a core differentiator in its market. * Own the move from outsourced to in-house delivery: Lead the transition away from third-party providers to internally-built products where the business owns its IP and roadmap. * Strategic, high-impact work: The majority of your time will be spent driving new product development and modernising platforms - not firefighting BAU tickets. What you'll be doing * Leading the design and build of modern, scalable applications on a Microsoft Azure stack. * Establishing engineering best practices across architecture, coding standards, CI/CD and testing. * Delivering key initiatives such as: * Customer-facing and internal applications * Self-service onboarding and account-management tools * Replacement of the existing core platform using an API/Fabric integration layer * Engaging with stakeholders to translate business requirements into well-architected technical solutions. Tech environment You don't need experience with everything below, but solid depth in the core areas is essential: * Data: SQL Server (other RDBMS experience welcome) * Delivery: Agile Scrum, CI/CD (Azure DevOps), automated testing Nice to have: * Experience with modern front-end frameworks * Exposure to Microsoft Fabric or similar data platforms Who this suits * A hands-on senior/lead engineer who enjoys designing, building and owning technical solutions. * Someone who thrives with autonomy * A pragmatic, collaborative technical leader who can mentor others, manage suppliers, but enjoys hands-on development * Someone excited by meaningful transformation This could be ideal for: * An existing Lead seeking more strategic and architectural responsibility, or * A strong Senior Engineer ready to step up with the support of an experienced Head of Technology & Data. * Base: Hybrid in Leeds, typically 2 days per week on-site, with flexibility If you're interested in shaping an engineering function from the ground up and influencing how this business delivers its next generation of products, please apply today and I'd be happy to share more details and discuss the role in confidence. ## Related Videos - [How to TDD in legacy code](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/309-how-to-tdd-in-legacy-code) - [Developer Tools for Microsoft Azure](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/450-developer-tools-for-microsoft-azure) - [It's all about the Data](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/425-it-s-all-about-the-data) - [Navigating the Corporate Jungle: Life as a Developer in a large Company](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/621-navigating-the-corporate-jungle-life-as-a-developer-in-a-large-company) - [Develop enterprise-ready applications for Microsoft Teams with Azure resources on modern web technologies](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/187-develop-enterprise-ready-applications-for-microsoft-teams-with-azure-resources-on-modern-web-technologies) - [SMART Test Automation - the experience of legacy transformation](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100215-smart-test-automation-the-experience-of-legacy-transformation) ## Related Articles - [Where to Find Entry-Level Software Engineering Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/397-where-to-find-entry-level-software-engineering-jobs) - [Why Upskilling And Reskilling is Important For Developers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/428-why-upskilling-and-reskilling-is-important-for-developers) - [Where To Find Software Engineering Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/396-where-to-find-software-engineering-jobs) - [Fully Remote Software Engineer Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/447-fully-remote-software-engineer-jobs) - [Software Engineer Salary London](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/252-software-engineer-salary-london) - [Is Software Engineering Over-Saturated?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/418-is-software-engineering-over-saturated)