Hands-on Head of Development

Our client is one of the UK's leading digital media agencies, specialising in the creation, hosting and syndication of product data and rich media content for globally recognised brands. Their aim is to help clients sell more online.

The Role:

We are seeking an experienced Hands-on Head of Development to lead and grow our software development team. This technical leadership position combines strategic oversight with practical, hands-on development work. The ideal candidate will have a strong front-end development background and the ability to guide a team of 5 developers while actively contributing to project delivery.

The position offers flexibility in terms of people management responsibilities, focusing primarily on technical leadership. The role is based in Colchester with a hybrid working pattern of 3 days per week in the office.

Required Skills & Experience:

• Proven experience in a technical leadership role or senior development position
• Strong proficiency in modern front-end technologies including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript/TypeScript
• Expert knowledge of Angular and/or Svelte frameworks
• Experience with CSS pre-processors like SASS/SCSS
• Strong understanding of RESTful APIs and modern web architecture
• Track record of delivering mobile-first, responsive web experiences
• Experience in technical decision-making and architecture planning
• Ability to mentor and guide development team members

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide technical leadership and direction for the development team
• Contribute actively to code development and review
• Drive best practices and coding standards

Essential Qualities:

• Strong advocate for agile methodologies and DevOps practices
• Excellence in technical communication at all levels
• Proven ability to balance hands-on development with leadership duties
• Experience working directly with clients and stakeholders
• Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail

Beneficial Experience:

• WebXR/WebGL experience (Three.js/Babylon.js)
• Knowledge of Microsoft Azure products and services
• Experience with e-commerce platforms (Magento, Shopify, WooCommerce)
• Familiarity with Adobe Creative Cloud suite

Salary & Benefits:

• Salary up to 80,000 depending on experience
• 25 days holiday
• 5% matched pension
• On-site Gym and Quiet Room
• Free parking
• Wellbeing initiatives including employer-funded Calm app subscription and entry fee for Colchester half marathon
• Social and fundraising activities
• Training in new technologies