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- Tasks: Lead and shape development while coding and solving problems hands-on.
- Company: Dynamic agency with a strong portfolio and a vision for the future.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 4-day working week, hybrid work model, and a high-trust environment.
- Other info: Diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on development and AI direction in a collaborative setting.
- Qualifications: Strong background in PHP, JavaScript, APIs, and client-facing environments.
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 Manchester 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 Manchester
✨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 valuable insights and even job referrals. Remember, it’s not just about what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the hands-on approach! Since this role is all about being involved in the nitty-gritty, brush up on your problem-solving skills. Be ready to discuss how you’ve tackled challenges in past projects and how you can bring that experience to the table.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your passion for the role and your fit for our team. Tailor your application to highlight your leadership and technical skills, and don’t forget to express your enthusiasm for shaping the future of development and AI with us!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of IT Development in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We want to see how excited you are about shaping development and AI direction. Share your experiences that align with our vision and make it personal.
Be Specific About Your Skills: We’re looking for someone with a strong hands-on development background. So, don’t just list your skills—give us examples of how you've used PHP, JavaScript frameworks, or worked with APIs in real projects. This helps us see how you can fit into our team.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application for this specific role. Highlight your experience with WordPress, Next.js, and any client-facing environments. We want to know how your unique background makes you the perfect fit for our ambitious team!
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 the role. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
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
You’ll need to interact with both technical and non-technical stakeholders, so practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms. This will demonstrate your ability to bridge the gap between different teams and ensure everyone is on the same page.
✨Prepare Questions About Their Vision
Research the agency's current projects and future goals. Prepare insightful questions that show your interest in how you can contribute to their vision, especially regarding AI and automation. This will help you stand out as someone who’s genuinely invested in their success.