At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic software team and drive innovative product development.
- Company: Join Blackstar, a global leader in guitar amplification design.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, collaborative environment, and opportunity to work on cutting-edge products.
- Other info: Relaxed dress code and a team of music lovers await you!
- Why this job: Make an impact in the music industry while leading a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Degree in software discipline and experience in commercial software development required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 € 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.
Software Development Team Leader in Northampton employer: LinkedIn
At Blackstar, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and dynamic work environment in Northampton where innovation thrives. Our team of passionate musicians is dedicated to creating industry-leading products, providing ample opportunities for professional growth and development while maintaining a flexible approach to working hours. Join us to be part of a company that values creativity, expertise, and a shared love for music.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Software Development Team Leader in Northampton
✨Tip Number 1
Get your networking game on! Connect with folks in the industry, especially those at Blackstar. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy to reach out on LinkedIn. A personal connection can make all the difference!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for music and software! When you get that interview, share your experiences and projects that highlight your skills. Talk about how your love for music drives your work in software development – it’ll resonate with the team.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those Agile sprint discussions! Brush up on your Agile methodologies and be ready to discuss how you've led teams through sprints in the past. We want to see your leadership skills in action!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our awesome team at Blackstar.
We think you need these skills to ace Software Development Team Leader in Northampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Software Development Team Leader role. Highlight your leadership experience, Agile methodologies, and any relevant projects you've led to show us you're the right fit.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about software development and how your background aligns with our mission at Blackstar. Don't forget to mention your love for music if it applies!
Showcase Your Projects:If you've worked on innovative software or firmware projects, make sure to include them in your application. We want to see your hands-on experience and how you've contributed to successful outcomes in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to join our passionate team at Blackstar!
How to prepare for a job interview at LinkedIn
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your software development knowledge, especially around Agile methodologies and project management. Be ready to discuss your experience leading teams and managing projects from start to finish.
✨Show Your Passion for Music
Since Blackstar is all about music and guitar amplification, don’t hesitate to share your passion for music. If you play an instrument or have a background in the industry, bring it up! It’ll show that you’re not just a techie but also someone who understands the product.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations, like managing a team during a tight deadline or resolving conflicts within your team. Think of examples from your past experiences that highlight your leadership and problem-solving skills.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have some thoughtful questions ready about the company culture, team dynamics, or upcoming projects. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
