Join to apply for the Deputy Director of Software Development role at JiscJOB TITLE: Deputy Director of Software Development - HYBRIDJisc Grade: TSO4Hours: 35 hours per weekContract: PermanentReports into: Director of SoftwareLocation: Hybrid - A blend of working from home and your nominated hub office. Hubs in London, Bristol, Manchester and Oxford.OverviewShape the Future of National Student Data Collection for Jisc. We are seeking an outstanding leader to join us as Deputy Director of Software Development, taking on a pivotal strategic and operational role at the heart of a major transformation programme for student data collection across the UK.About the RoleAs Deputy Director, you will define the operating model and lead the department with a strong understanding of the student data collection domain and the broader context. You will ensure the teams are empowered, aligned and equipped to deliver outcomes the business and sector need. You will lead a large, multi-disciplinary department (circa 70 staff) responsible for delivering and evolving the systems that underpin HESA data collections, providing both strategic direction and operational leadership during significant transformation while maintaining high standards of service delivery.About YouYou are an exceptional senior leader, comfortable at deputy-director level or above. You thrive in complex, ambiguous environments, quickly understanding new domains and translating insight into action. You are proactive, self-directed, and able to set the agenda, building the right operating model and leading your teams to deliver meaningful, lasting impact.ResponsibilitiesLeadership of SDG-Collections: High-level strategic leadership for a large-scale technical function, focused on oversight and direction rather than hands-on technical execution.Technical Leadership: Strategic leadership across software architecture, development methodologies, testing frameworks, vendor/licensing management, performance metrics and other core technical areas.SDG Leadership: Active member of the Software Development Group (SDG) leadership team, spanning software development, UX, scrum mastery, testing, and more; supports the wider function and peers’ deliverables.Staff management: Lead and develop personnel, including oversight of senior managers, fostering a culture of excellence and high performance.Aligning development and product strategy: Develop and execute a long-term software development strategy aligned with product objectives; influence product strategy for technical efficiency and deliverability.Stakeholder Management: Manage internal and external stakeholders, including product teams and official bodies.Cost management: Manage a large cost base (staff, infrastructure, 3rd party suppliers) to ensure value for money.Key Skills and ExperienceTechnical & Delivery ExpertiseExtensive experience in software development with a track record of delivering high-quality solutions.Proven ability to lead agile software delivery with deep understanding of agile principles and methodologies.Experience architecting large-scale systems across multiple development teams.Experience delivering greenfield projects from inception to deployment.Strong background in managing and maintaining live production software services.Leadership & People ManagementExperience managing and developing line managers and high-performing teams.Effective at delivering through others by delegating in a supportive environment.Coaching team members to succeed; able to adjust leadership approach as needed.Confident in making difficult decisions under pressure and owning them.Able to conduct challenging conversations with tact and professionalism while constructively challenging others when needed.Communication & Organisational SkillsExcellent written and verbal communication; able to articulate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.Strong collaboration and stakeholder engagement skills with the ability to influence at all levels.Solid project management capabilities, including setting long-term goals and tracking progress aligned with strategic objectives.Highly organised with effective prioritisation in fast-paced environments.We encourage you to apply even if you do not meet 100% of the requirements if you feel this role is perfect for you.Why work for us?At Jisc, every role is vital and every person matters. We support learning throughout your career and offer chances to grow, develop new skills, and make a real difference in education and research. We embrace flexible working and focus on results rather than hours at a desk.BenefitsFlexible work pattern to suit schedules31 days annual leave plus bank holidays, with Christmas closure days and option to buy up to 5 additional days24/7 mental health support package with coaching and counsellingAnnual Jisc performance awardWellbeing benefits including health care plan and mental health supportAccess to LinkedIn Learning and development resourcesUp to £250 home office allowanceFinancial wellbeing support including loan/savings guidancePayroll Giving, salary sacrifice schemes (subject to terms) and other discountsFamily-friendly policies and volunteering leaveLife assurance coverageEquity, diversity and inclusionJisc is committed to an inclusive culture that welcomes ideas and values belonging. We strive to provide an equitable candidate experience across race, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, neurodivergence, veteran status and more.Application processPlease let us know how we can accommodate you throughout the recruitment process. We are committed to accessibility and comfort for everyone—tell us what works best for you. If you are a current Jisc employee, apply through Dayforce.We encourage using AI tools to help with CVs or cover letters, but please review your application to ensure it reflects your voice and experiences.We have a thorough background screening process; inaccuracies in your CV or application can lead to a withdrawn offer.Sponsorship:Jisc has an active sponsor licence to recruit on a Skilled Worker visa basis. Sponsorship candidates should assess their eligibility against Home Office criteria. Jisc does not cover relocation or visa costs.No agencies please. #J-18808-Ljbffr