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- Tasks: Lead and shape the development function while writing code and solving problems.
- Company: Dynamic agency with an impressive client portfolio and a clear vision.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 4-day working week, hybrid work model, and a high-trust environment.
- Other info: Join a diverse team that values collaboration and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on development and AI direction in a hands-on role.
- Qualifications: Strong background in PHP, JavaScript frameworks, APIs, and databases.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Bolton (moving to Manchester) | Full-time | 4-day working week
If you’re looking for a role where you can genuinely shape how an agency builds, delivers and scales, this is one of those rare ones. You’ll be joining an ambitious team with an impressive portfolio of clients, a clear vision for where they’re heading, and the appetite to do things properly.
This isn’t a sit-back leadership role. It’s hands-on, strategic, and not for everyone. But if you like being in the detail and influencing the bigger picture, it’s a unique offering.
The role
- You’ll lead the development function while staying close to the work. Writing code, solving problems, and shaping technical direction.
- Own end-to-end delivery across web and platform projects
- Work across WordPress (custom themes), Next.js, React, PHP and modern JavaScript
- Build and integrate RESTful APIs and headless CMS architectures
- Work with SQL, PostgreSQL and database-driven systems
- Manage hosting environments, servers, DNS, domains and deployments
- Get involved in CI/CD workflows, testing, QA and performance optimisation
- Scope, plan and price technical work
- Drive better processes, workflows and development standards
- Build internal tools, dashboards and automation
- Play a key role in how AI, automation and agentic workflows are rolled out across the agency
A blend of builder, leader and strategist.
What they’re looking for
- Strong hands-on development background across PHP, JavaScript frameworks, APIs and databases
- Experience with WordPress, Next.js and modern frontend/backend builds
- Comfortable working across infrastructure, hosting and deployment
- Experience in fast-paced, client-facing environments
- Able to own projects from idea through to delivery
- Clear communicator with both technical and non-technical stakeholders
- Someone who improves how things are done, not just maintains them
Why it’s worth a look
- 4-day working week
- Hybrid: Monday to Thursday in the office, Wednesday from home
- Great agency with strong momentum
- Impressive portfolio of clients
- Real opportunity to shape development and AI direction
- High trust, high ownership environment
- A role where you’ll genuinely have impact
Mirai believes in the power of diversity and the importance of an inclusive culture. It welcomes applications from individuals of all backgrounds, understanding that a range of perspectives strengthens both its team and the teams of its partners. This is just one of the ways that they’re taking positive action to shape a collaborative and diverse future in the workplace.
Head of IT Development in Bolton employer: Mirai Talent
Contact Detail:
Mirai Talent Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of IT Development in Bolton
✨Tip Number 1
Get your hands dirty! When you’re applying for a role like Head of IT Development, it’s crucial to showcase your technical skills. Don’t just talk about your experience; be ready to demonstrate your coding prowess in interviews or even through practical tests.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with industry professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. Join relevant groups and engage in discussions. This can lead to referrals and insider info about job openings that might not be advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the deep dive! Expect technical interviews to cover everything from coding challenges to system design. Brush up on your knowledge of PHP, JavaScript frameworks, and database management to impress your interviewers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining us. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills align with our vision and the unique challenges we face in development.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of IT Development in Bolton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Hands-On Experience: Make sure to highlight your hands-on development experience in your application. We want to see how you've tackled real-world problems and contributed to projects, especially with PHP, JavaScript frameworks, and APIs.
Communicate Clearly: Since you'll be working with both technical and non-technical stakeholders, it's crucial to demonstrate your communication skills. Use clear language in your application to show that you can bridge the gap between different teams.
Emphasise Your Strategic Thinking: We’re looking for someone who can influence the bigger picture. In your application, share examples of how you've shaped technical direction or improved processes in previous roles. Show us you're not just a doer, but a thinker too!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates about the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Mirai Talent
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the technologies mentioned in the job description, like PHP, JavaScript frameworks, and RESTful APIs. Brush up on your coding skills and be ready to discuss specific projects where you've used these technologies.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Since this role is hands-on and strategic, prepare examples that highlight your leadership approach. Think about times when you’ve influenced a project’s direction or improved processes, and be ready to share those stories.
✨Communicate Clearly with All Stakeholders
Practice explaining complex technical concepts in simple terms. You’ll need to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders, so think of ways to demonstrate your ability to bridge that gap during the interview.
✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Skills
Be prepared to tackle hypothetical scenarios or real problems from your past experience. Show how you approach challenges, whether it’s through coding, optimising workflows, or integrating new technologies, and highlight your results.