Development Manager

Smile Digital Talent; Shrewsbury; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A forward-thinking digital agency in the UK seeks a Development Manager, Head of Development to lead its technical function. This senior leadership role involves guiding a small development team with a mix of hands-on technical work and management. The ideal candidate will have a strong track record in team management and performance optimization while fostering a culture of innovation. Competitive compensation and a hybrid work model are offered.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in team leadership within a technical environment.
• Strong technical knowledge with hands-on development experience.
• Demonstrated ability to innovate and guide a growing department.

Responsibilities

• Lead, motivate, and develop a multi-skilled development team.
• Oversee strategy, delivery, and performance for all projects.
• Balance commercial thinking with technical leadership.

Skills

Team management

Performance optimisation

Strategic delivery

Hands-on web development

Collaboration

Job description

Development Manager, Head of Development -Telford (Hybrid / West Midlands region)

A forward thinking digital agency is looking for an experienced Development Manager, Head of Development to lead its technical function, shape strategic direction, and drive innovation across all digital projects, whilst working in a hands on capacity.

This is a senior leadership role, ideal for someone who combines hands‑on technical knowledge with a strong record in team management, performance optimisation, and strategic delivery. The position offers real influence within the business, along with the opportunity to guide a growing department through its next stage of evolution.

The Role

You will take ownership of a small development team, overseeing strategy, delivery, and performance. The role requires balancing commercial thinking with technical leadership, ensuring projects are delivered to the highest standards while fostering a culture of collaboration, growth, and continuous improvement. Leading from the front and working in a hands‑on capacity, 60% hands on and 40% management / leadership.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership :

Lead, motivate, and develop a multi‑skilled development team, whilst working hands on, leading from the front with 60% of your role being hands on web development.

• Set and monitor departmental goals, KPIs, …