Development & Projects Senior Manager

We are recruiting for a Developments & Projects Senior Manager to join our Finance Systems Group in London.

Department purpose

Provide high quality advice and relevant, accurate information to the decision makers in A&O, ensuring compliance with laws and regulations and delivering our service efficiently.

Role purpose

Management of the development team within the Finance Systems Group that support the ongoing improvement of the Finance Systems estate. Manage the technical software release cycle for stock and custom code, including project, task, and resource planning, working closely with the Finance Programme Manager. Ensure programme/project management best practices, documentation, governance, and processes are followed for Finance System technical projects. Collaborate with IT, HR, and BD systems on tasks/projects across these service delivery functions.

Role and responsibilities

• Manage the development team, building a high-performing team while developing each individual.
• Implement, participate in, and manage effective technical project management.
• Provide leadership and direction to development team members for development and project duties.
• Define roles and responsibilities for all involved in projects.
• Mentor project teams to ensure successful global deployment of software solutions.
• Serve as SME for the software release cycle, including task and resource planning and chairing project meetings.
• Manage project deadlines, overcome obstacles creatively, and escalate issues effectively.
• Manage change effectively, influence delivery teams, and resolve disputes sensitively but firmly.
• Handle project risks and issues, including escalation.
• Ensure projects follow Group Finance methodologies and align with the Finance Programme Manager.
• Ensure compliance with wider IT project approaches and portfolio management methodologies.
• Act as point of contact for IT and HR regarding software and infrastructure projects.
• Support team members in an advisory role, coordinate tasks, and ensure best practices.
• Understand system inter-dependencies within and connected to Finance Systems.
• Review and prepare technical/functional specifications, communications, and project plans.
• Manage the 3e Development & Controlled Testing environments, ensuring version control, database updates, and performance reviews.
• Serve as Group Finance point of contact for performance testing reviews.
• Build relationships with support functions, ensuring service expectations are met.
• Coordinate with other teams for smooth transition of solutions into support.

Key requirements

• Experience in leading and motivating development teams.
• Proven project management experience with a track record of delivering on time and quality projects.
• Strong people and task management skills within a matrix structure.
• Knowledge of project management methodologies.
• Excellent reporting, planning, and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong understanding of the application development lifecycle.
• Relevant finance/accounting knowledge; experience with Elite 3e is a plus.
• Experience with business process reviews and documentation.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and able to drive tasks to completion.
• Ability to multitask and work under pressure.
• Proficiency in Visio, Project, and Office applications.
• Ability to work independently and take initiative.
• Strong meeting organization and facilitation skills, especially with senior staff.

Should you require additional support during the recruitment process due to a disability or health condition, please contact our recruitment team for assistance. We are an equal opportunities employer and value diversity. Our benefits include pension schemes, medical insurance, wellbeing resources, flexible working, and more. We support hybrid working, allowing up to 40% remote work, with a focus on in-person collaboration.