Mr Fothergill\'s Seeds Ltd | Systems Development Manager

At Fothergill’s Seeds we are in the business of bringing gardens to life. Known for our exceptional range of seeds, garden products and horticultural expertise with well-known brands such as Mr Fothergill’s, Johnsons, DT Brown and Darlac our products can be found in garden centres, big retailers and direct to consumers through our websites and catalogues. We have a legacy of quality, a loyal customer base and are committed to inspiring and empowering gardeners of all levels.

We are a passionate team with a strong can-do attitude. We show respect to one another and are keen to innovate on our respective areas of expertise. We value agility, understand the journey our business is on and strive to add our unique mark onto that journey. We work hard but don’t forget to have fun. Our company purpose is “Helping Everyone Grow” and we extend that purpose to everything we do.

As Systems Development Manager you will play a key role in shaping and executing the Group’s IT strategy. You will be responsible for overseeing the development and management of the Group’s web platforms, business systems (including ERP), and e-commerce initiatives, collaborating closely with various business units to understand their needs and recommend technological solutions to improve business processes, streamline operations, and support future growth. You will also lead and mentor the development team, ensuring their continued professional growth while delivering impactful IT projects.

Core Responsibilities:

Development & E-commerce Management

• Lead the e-commerce project, ensuring business goals are met and systems align with industry best practices.
• Manage and mentor the development team, setting clear goals and driving team performance.
• Conduct audits of existing web technologies, developing short- and long-term enhancement plans.

Business Systems & Support

• Manage and optimise the Group’s ERP systems, ensuring smooth integration and support.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to identify new systems or developments supporting strategic goals.
• Oversee web platforms and applications, ensuring scalability and security.
• Serve as the main contact for system failures, implementing contingency plans.

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead, motivate, and develop the IT development team, ensuring skill growth and effective performance.
• Align team objectives with the Group’s technology vision and provide training as needed.
• Mentor team members and contribute to the overall IT leadership strategy.

Project Management & Financial Oversight

• Manage the development function’s budget and forecast future tech investments.
• Lead IT projects to ensure timely, successful delivery.
• Manage supplier relationships, ensuring high service quality and value for money.

Service Delivery & Supplier Management

• Ensure service excellence across web and business systems, coordinating with IT support.
• Review and optimise third-party contracts, driving cost efficiencies and service improvements.

We are looking for someone who can evidence previous success in a development or IT management role with a strong background in e-commerce, ERP (Sage and NetSuite ideally) and web technologies. You will be hands-on, able to balance competing priorities, long term vision and day to day operational demands. You will also demonstrate:

• Strong team management skills, with the ability to motivate, mentor, and develop a high-performing team
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage stakeholders across all levels of the organisation
• Strong project management experience, with the ability to handle multiple priorities and deliver results on time and within budget
• Knowledge of web technologies, software development life cycles, and best practices for systems integration and maintenance
• Budget management experience, with the ability to manage financial planning and reporting
• A hands-on approach to problem-solving and the technical ability to provide support when necessary

The world of gardening should be accessible to all and it’s important that our teams reflect the diversity of our customers, ensuring that our products meet everyone’s needs. Therefore, we very much welcome applications from a diverse range of candidates regardless of background, gender, race, religious beliefs, disability, sexual orientation, or age. We’re ‘rooting’ for you!