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- Tasks: Lead and scale a software team developing advanced aviation navigation systems.
- Company: Join a cutting-edge company focused on operational defence technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, 30+ days leave, private medical, and more perks.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while staying close to the code and shaping team culture.
- Qualifications: 1-3 years managing software teams; strong communication and Agile experience required.
- Other info: Open to senior engineers looking to transition into management.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 84000 £ per year.
We’re looking for a Software Engineering Manager to lead and scale a growing team developing an advanced Aviation Navigation System used in operational defence environments. This is a hands-off managerial role that still keeps you close to the code and technical direction, ideal for someone looking to deepen their leadership and impact. Due to the sensitive nature of the work, candidates must be UK Nationals and eligible for National Security Vetting (normally requiring 5+ years UK residency).
What’s in it for you?
- Grow your impact: Lead team culture, delivery, and long-term technical decisions.
- Stay connected to the code: Provide high-level technical guidance without day-to-day coding.
- Shape the future: Help scale the team and improve how engineering is done.
- Hybrid working: Flexible remote options (1 day/week).
- Excellent benefits: 30+ days leave, private medical/dental, EV scheme, pension, training support, share incentives, and more.
What You’ll Own
- Line management and coaching for a high-performing team (currently 4 and growing).
- Establishing delivery cadence, team processes, and development best practices.
- Contributing to strategic technical direction and cross-functional planning.
- Recruitment, onboarding, and ongoing team development.
- Staying close to technical discussions, architecture, and code reviews when needed.
What You’ll Bring
- 1–3 years’ experience managing software teams (formal or blended with tech lead responsibilities).
- Strong communication and people management skills.
- A background in object-oriented programming (ideally C#/.NET; other languages like Java, C++, or VB.NET welcome).
- Solid understanding of Agile (Scrum, Kanban) and delivering software collaboratively.
- A passion for process improvement, tooling upgrades, and growing developer capabilities.
Also Open To Senior Software Engineers or Lead Software Engineers who have meaningful experience mentoring, coaching, or technically leading a team and are looking to transition into a more formal management path.
Package: £75-85,000 + Full Benefits Package included uncapped holiday.
Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
Employment type: Full-time
Job function: Information Technology
Industries: Software Development and IT System Custom Software Development
Software Engineering Manager employer: Foster Growth
Contact Detail:
Foster Growth Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Software Engineering Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in aviation navigation systems and defence technology. This knowledge will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees in similar roles, especially those who have experience in managing software teams. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've contributed to team culture and delivery.
✨Tip Number 4
Brush up on Agile methodologies, particularly Scrum and Kanban, as these are crucial for the role. Consider obtaining a certification if you haven't already, as it can strengthen your application.
We think you need these skills to ace Software Engineering Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in managing software teams and your technical background. Emphasise any relevant projects or roles that showcase your leadership skills and familiarity with object-oriented programming.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for leading teams and improving processes. Mention specific examples of how you've contributed to team culture and delivery in previous roles, and how you plan to bring that experience to the new position.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Clearly outline your experience with Agile methodologies and any tools you've used to improve developer capabilities. If you have experience mentoring or coaching, make sure to include that as it aligns with the job requirements.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since strong communication is key for this role, consider including examples of how you've effectively communicated with cross-functional teams or stakeholders. This could be in the form of project updates, presentations, or team meetings.
How to prepare for a job interview at Foster Growth
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As a Software Engineering Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and manage teams effectively. Prepare examples of how you've successfully coached or mentored team members in the past, and be ready to discuss your approach to fostering a positive team culture.
✨Understand the Technical Landscape
Even though this is a hands-off role, staying close to the code is essential. Brush up on your knowledge of object-oriented programming, particularly in C#/.NET, and be prepared to discuss technical decisions you've made in previous roles. This will show your capability to guide the team technically.
✨Emphasise Agile Methodologies
Since the company values Agile practices, be ready to talk about your experience with Scrum or Kanban. Share specific instances where you implemented Agile processes to improve team delivery and collaboration, as this will highlight your understanding of effective software development practices.
✨Prepare for Cultural Fit Questions
Cultural fit is crucial in any team environment. Think about how you can contribute to the company's values and mission. Be prepared to discuss how you would handle team dynamics, conflict resolution, and maintaining morale, especially in a hybrid working setup.
