At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire a dynamic software team to create innovative digital products.
- Company: Join Blackstar, a globally recognised leader in guitar amplification design.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, collaborative environment, and opportunity to work on industry-leading products.
- Other info: Relaxed dress code and a culture of innovation and creativity.
- Why this job: Make an impact in the music industry while working with passionate musicians.
- Qualifications: Degree in software-related field and experience in software development and team management.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
Main Activities and Tasks
- Lead, manage and develop the Software Team, ensuring high levels of performance, motivation and engagement.
- Drive the ideation, specification and research of innovative software and digital products.
- Oversee the development of scalable firmware and software using structured, process-driven methodologies.
- Plan workloads and communicate progress to key stakeholders including Project Leads and Programme Managers.
- Maintain best practices, ensuring adherence to documentation standards and quality management systems.
- Manage software development projects, including liaison with OEM partners.
- Lead Agile sprint processes and contribute to project planning, scoping and problem-solving.
- Ensure delivery of software and firmware from concept through to production, including testing and validation.
- Participate in cross-functional New Product Introduction teams.
- Contribute hands-on to software development where required.
- Support wider business activities with a flexible and collaborative approach.
Requirements
- Degree-level qualification (or equivalent) in a software-related discipline.
- Several years’ experience in a commercial software development environment.
- Strong understanding of software engineering and testing principles.
- Experience with Agile Scrum and sprint planning methodologies.
- Proven people management experience, including line management responsibilities.
- Experience leading projects from conception through to delivery.
- Ability to work independently and manage priorities effectively.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Desirable
- Experience in audio software development.
- Familiarity with JUCE framework or similar technologies.
- Embedded firmware development experience.
- Knowledge of DSP principles.
- Experience with Git, Confluence and Jira.
- Understanding of full product lifecycle and mass manufacturing processes.
- Background or interest in music (e.g. playing guitar).
- Knowledge of the musical instrument industry.
The Offer
- Full-time position (Monday to Friday, 8:00 – 17:00).
- Based in Northampton, UK.
- Flexible approach to working hours and environment depending on business needs.
- Opportunity to work on innovative, industry-leading products.
- Collaborative and dynamic working environment.
The company
Launched in 2007, Blackstar is globally recognised and respected as an innovator and leader in guitar amplification design. We are a company of musicians who are truly passionate about what we do and understand the importance of great tone. Blackstar is based in Northampton, with over 80 years’ combined experience in guitar amplification design and production. Our team pioneers change in the industry and has a strong commitment to driving transformational innovation within all of our products. Blackstar products are the best in the world for design, technology and performance – we create the ultimate tools for self-expression.
The Environment
Blackstar is a unique environment; we are all musicians/music lovers and the dress code is relaxed. Our teams are experts in their field and we are incredibly passionate about our products and the industry as a whole. Most of our staff have worked in the industry for a long time and we are looking for candidates who wish to grow with the company and share in our current and future success.
If you share our passion, approach your work with pride, are driven by innovation, want to be the best and help to grow our global brand to its highest potential we would love to hear from you. Please apply with an up-to-date CV. We are looking to hold interviews ASAP, for which an initial telephone or video conversation would be the first step.
Team Leader - Immediate Start in Northampton employer: Blackstar Amplification Ltd
Contact Detail:
Blackstar Amplification Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Team Leader - Immediate Start in Northampton
✨Tip Number 1
Get your networking game on! Reach out to folks in the industry, especially those who work at Blackstar or similar companies. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info that could help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for music and software! When you get the chance to chat with interviewers, share your experiences and projects that highlight your love for both. It’ll make you memorable and show you’re a great fit for their culture.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those Agile questions! Brush up on your knowledge of Agile methodologies and be ready to discuss how you've led teams through sprints and project planning. They’ll want to see you can hit the ground running.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and are keen to be part of the Blackstar family.
We think you need these skills to ace Team Leader - Immediate Start in Northampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your love for music and software shine through. We want to see how your interests align with our mission at Blackstar, so don’t hold back on sharing your enthusiasm!
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in software development and team leadership. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your skills in Agile methodologies and project management, so customise it to fit the role.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key achievements stand out. This helps us quickly see why you’d be a great fit for our team.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and keen to join our awesome team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Blackstar Amplification Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your software engineering principles and Agile methodologies. Be ready to discuss your experience with leading projects from conception to delivery, as well as any specific technologies mentioned in the job description, like JUCE or Git.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams and motivated your colleagues in previous roles. Highlight your people management experience and be ready to discuss how you handle conflicts or challenges within a team.
✨Be Passionate About Music
Since Blackstar is all about music and guitar amplification, it’s a great idea to express your passion for music during the interview. If you play an instrument or have experience in the music industry, share that! It’ll show you’re a good cultural fit.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company’s products, culture, and future projects. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if this is the right environment for you. Think about how you can contribute to their innovative approach!