At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead software delivery teams to innovate and enhance assessment technology.
- Company: Join AQA, the UK's largest provider of academic qualifications.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25-30 days annual leave, flexible working, and excellent pension schemes.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with great career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on education by shaping assessment technology for millions.
- Qualifications: Experience in agile software delivery and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
At AQA, we’re committed to advancing education and we’re committed to our people. As the largest provider of academic qualifications in the UK, we mark over 10 million exam papers each year and it’s our people who make this happen.
12 month fixed term
Manchester
Salary: £63,000 - £72,800 + Excellent Benefits
Working Arrangements: Hybrid (2 days a week in the office)
Introduction
You’ll play a key role in shaping the future of AQA’s assessment technology. This is your chance to lead impactful software delivery that supports millions of learners every year. At AQA, you’ll join the assessment technology group in Manchester. This team manages the systems that deliver over 3 million GCSE and A-level results every year. You’ll oversee software that supports the full lifecycle of exams, from entries through to post-results services, as well as an integration product built on Azure Integration Services that keeps data secure and reliable across all AQA systems and third parties.
Purpose of the Role
You’ll lead the delivery of change for software products within AQA’s Assessment Technology portfolio. Your work will ensure our systems remain reliable, innovative, and aligned with our mission to deliver world-class assessments. Working with internal teams and trusted suppliers, you’ll make sure change is delivered on time, to a high standard, and with continuous improvement at the heart of how you work.
Key Responsibilities
- Leading delivery teams to develop and support strategically aligned software products, driving agile and lean practices.
- Facilitating PI planning and Scrum of Scrums to ensure alignment and optimise workflow.
- Managing risks, escalating impediments, and driving continuous improvement across delivery processes.
What We Are Looking For
- Strong experience in software delivery within agile and scaled agile environments.
- Technical knowledge to assess and innovate across diverse software technologies.
- Ability to lead teams through complex, time-sensitive challenges.
- Experience delivering in high-stakes, regulated environments.
- A passion for continuous improvement and innovative problem-solving.
What’s in it for you
At AQA we value your contribution and we’ll make sure you feel supported and rewarded. You’ll get:
- 25 days’ annual leave, rising to 30 with service, plus bank holidays and extra closure days at Christmas
- a 35-hour working week with flexible working arrangements
- an excellent contributory pension scheme (6%–11.5% depending on your contribution)
- life assurance, BUPA PMI, and health cash plan
- enhanced maternity and paternity schemes
- access to professional and personal development whenever you need it
Diversity and Inclusion
At AQA, we are committed to fostering a workplace that celebrates diversity and promotes equity and inclusion. We believe that a diverse team brings richer perspectives and drives better outcomes. Our ED&I strategy ensures that everyone—regardless of religion, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, age, disability, sexual orientation, or background—is valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. We actively promote inclusive language, avoid stereotypes, and strive for representation across all dimensions of diversity. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and lived experiences.
Application Process
To apply, please submit your CV and cover letter through our careers portal. Closing date for applications is Monday 5th January. Interviews will be held F2F in Manchester w/c 15th January.
Software Delivery Manager in Manchester employer: AQA Recruiting
AQA is an exceptional employer that values innovation and collaboration, offering a dynamic work environment in Manchester with the flexibility of hybrid working. Employees benefit from professional development opportunities, a supportive culture that encourages growth, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on education nationwide. Join us to be part of a team that is dedicated to shaping the future of History and Politics education while enjoying the unique advantages of working in a vibrant city.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Software Delivery Manager in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend meetups, webinars, or even just grab a coffee with someone who works at AQA. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research AQA’s assessment technology and think about how your experience aligns with their mission. Practice common interview questions and be ready to showcase your agile delivery skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for continuous improvement! During interviews, share examples of how you've driven change in previous roles. AQA loves innovative problem-solvers, so let your enthusiasm shine through!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you can keep track of your application status easily. Let’s get you that Software Delivery Manager role!
We think you need these skills to ace Software Delivery Manager in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Software Delivery Manager role. Highlight your experience in agile environments and any relevant technical skills. We want to see how your background aligns with our mission at AQA!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about advancing education and how you can contribute to our assessment technology. Keep it engaging and personal, so we get a sense of who you are.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a Software Delivery Manager, you'll be leading teams through complex challenges. Make sure to include examples of how you've successfully managed teams and delivered projects on time. We love to see evidence of your leadership style!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our careers portal! It’s the best way for us to receive your CV and cover letter. Plus, it keeps everything organised on our end, making the process smoother for everyone.
How to prepare for a job interview at AQA Recruiting
✨Know Your Agile Inside Out
As a Software Delivery Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your strong experience in agile and scaled agile environments. Brush up on agile methodologies, and be ready to discuss how you've implemented these practices in past roles. Prepare specific examples of how you've led teams through complex challenges using agile principles.
✨Showcase Your Technical Savvy
This role requires technical knowledge across diverse software technologies. Be prepared to talk about the tools and technologies you've worked with, especially those relevant to AQA's assessment technology. Highlight any innovative solutions you've implemented and how they improved delivery processes.
✨Emphasise Continuous Improvement
AQA values continuous improvement, so come armed with examples of how you've driven this in previous positions. Discuss specific initiatives you've led that resulted in enhanced efficiency or quality in software delivery. This will show your alignment with their mission to deliver world-class assessments.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Stakeholder engagement is key in this role. Prepare to discuss how you've effectively communicated with various stakeholders in the past. Think of examples where you managed expectations, escalated issues, or facilitated discussions to ensure alignment across teams. This will demonstrate your ability to build trust and confidence with customers and stakeholders.
