Job Description

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ABOUT THE POSITION

We are currently recruiting for an experienced Development Manager to oversee all software and website development activity produced by our fast-paced agency based in Hitchin, Hertfordshire.



CDA exists to make digital, human. We're a full-service digital agency that elevates businesses through digital transformation. Our specialities lie in software development, eCommerce, customer experience and digital marketing. We value simplicity, avoiding complexity and jargon.



This exciting opportunity will see the successful candidate responsible for the smooth running of the development function, handling the entire software development lifecycle and managing high-impact solutions from planning to deployment. Ensuring projects are delivered to a high standard, on time and within budget, this role is pivotal to maintaining our reputation as an expert, reliable digital agency.

THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE:

We're looking for a task-focused individual with a development background and commercial mindset. The successful candidate will have extensive experience working with various frameworks and programming languages as well as managing in-house, external and offshore development teams. You will have worked with eCommerce platforms such as Magento, WooCommerce and Shopify along with platforms such as Laravel, PHP, and SQL. You will understand databases, website functionality and user experience.



A network of proven developers who can be called upon to help deliver bespoke solutions for our clients would be beneficial as you'll be central in shaping the future of our development team.



You must be technically strong and confident in translating business needs into technical requirements. You'll regularly lead client scoping sessions, define solutions, and produce high-quality technical documentation that guides development teams. Demonstrating and sharing best practice in software architecture and development processes will be key to your success.


Proven experience leading software development teams A track record of managing full-lifecycle software development projects with complex requirements from discovery through to production Extensive knowledge of Magento, WordPress / WooCommerce and Shopify Extensive knowledge of web technology, AI, SQL, PHP and Laravel Experience of building proprietary software Ability to lead discovery and scoping sessions with both internal teams and clients A solid understanding of software engineering principles and Agile or Scrum project management methodologies Excellent customer and stakeholder management skills Strong communicator Highly organised Located within a 1-hour commute of Hitchin, Hertfordshire

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

The main purpose of this role is to manage multiple software projects through the project life cycle, being responsible for supplier management, project scope, budget, quality and resources. You will lead the scoping of software development projects including wireframing using Balsamiq Mockups and/or Figma and writing detailed technical requirement specifications documents.



You will be expected to run structured discovery and scoping sessions with clients, capture functional and non-functional requirements, and produce clear and comprehensive technical specifications. You will also guide internal teams by sharing technical best practices, ensuring consistent delivery across all projects.



You will communicate effectively with internal Project Managers, Designers and Delivery teams to produce projects on time and in budget and will be expected to work with clients to capture their requirements, answer technical questions and facilitate projects.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

Minimum 10 years' experience in similar roles Degree or relevant qualification

SALARY

Salary dependant on skills and experience Private health and dental cover 25 days holiday (plus Bank Holidays) Pension scheme

BENEFITS

It's a fantastic time to join the business. Our employees value the flexible working environment and the chance to develop their skills on a wide variety of interesting projects.


Hybrid working (after probation) Flexible working hours Fully refurbished office for 2025 Great working environment when you're needed in the office which includes free parking and a fully stocked kitchen with teas, coffee, snacks and more! Frequent social events Holiday buy back scheme Charity volunteer day

HOW TO APPLY

Please include a cover letter with your CV. Your covering letter should tell us why you're suitable. We will contact you should you qualify for an interview.



NO AGENCIES

EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES

As a business we are committed to the continuous improvement of diversity and equality in the workplace, and we welcome talented individuals from all backgrounds who share our passion for making digital human.

RIGHT TO WORK

If your application is successful, and we invite you for an interview/assessment, we'll need additional information to check you have the right to work in the UK, including a copy of your passport, your National Insurance number and any other relevant proof of your right to work, for example visa or working permits.