Software Engineering Manager in Exeter
Job Description
Powered by Water, Driven by PurposeSouth West Water keeps the South West flowing with safe, reliable drinking water and wastewater services across some of the UK's most stunning landscapes.We're proud to be part of Pennon Group, a leader in the UK water sector, working towards a greener future. Our goals? As well as lowering our carbon footprint, we're working with partners to plant 300,000 trees, restore peatlands and supporting farmers and landowners to improve water quality and wildlife.Whether you're starting out or seeking a new challenge, our scale and ambition create opportunities for you to shape your own career.Ready to make a splash?
Join our team today.Software Engineering Manager Lead high-performing teams building impactful digital solutionsLocation: Bristol HQ or Exeter HQSalary: £70,000 - £90,000 (dependent on experience)Purpose of the RoleAs Software Engineering Manager, you will lead both the delivery and long-term ownership of key software platforms and development services that support critical business operations. You will oversee new development, enhancements and change delivery, while ensuring platforms transition successfully into live service and continue to operate securely, reliably and effectively.The role combines technology leadership, delivery oversight, governance, and people management. You will ensure our software platforms, development practices, -led solutions, and AI-enabled capabilities remain secure, resilient, compliant, and fit for purpose in a regulated environment.Key Responsibilities Define and deliver a clear software platform strategy and roadmap across custom applications, APIs, low-code, and legacy systemsLead high-quality, predictable delivery of software changes across internal teams, developers, and third-party suppliersOwn and prioritise the development backlog, balancing business needs, stability, risk, and innovationEstablish governance for low-code and development to enable safe, scalable useOversee responsible adoption of AI-enabled capabilitiesEnsure architectural integrity, security, and compliance across all solutionsManage legacy systems, including modernisation and decommissioning plansMaintain reliable, resilient platform operationsLead and develop high-performing engineering teams and partnersControl and optimise platform and tooling costsProvide clear reporting on delivery, risks, and platform healthExperience Required Proven leadership of enterprise software platforms and delivery governance (non-hands-on role)Experience managing mixed development ecosystems (custom, packaged, low-code)Strong background in backlog, roadmap, and delivery management (Agile or hybrid)Experience with AI governance and adoption in enterprise environmentsTrack record leading multi-disciplinary teams and third-party suppliersExperience in regulated or operationally critical environmentsQualificationsEssential Degree-level or equivalent experienceCertification in Agile, Scrum, SAFe, PRINCE2, MSP or similarEligible for UK Security Clearance (SC)Desirable Relevant cloud/platform certificationsExperience governing low-code and AI solutions at scaleWhat you'll getJoin us and help deliver a reliable, high-quality service for our customers across the South West.We believe in rewarding our people for their hard work and dedication.
As our Software Engineering Manager you'll enjoy: Competitive Salary - Based on experience and skillsCompany car or car allowance - Options to support your roleAnnual Bonus Scheme - Recognising company performancePension Scheme - Helping you plan for your futureFlexible Working Options - We value work-life balance and offer flexible hours and hybrid working where possibleHealthcare Benefits - Access to employee assistance programsEmployee Discounts - On various products and servicesAnnual Leave - Take time to recharge with our holiday entitlementReady to Make a Difference?Closing Date: 16th July 2026We may close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.Please note that the successful candidate will be subject to a mandatory DBS check as part of the onboarding process.Be yourself, we like it that way. Together, we will build a culture of belonging, where is instinctive.
is our strength and a reflection of our communities. We care, we value everyone, we celebrate uniqueness.Our core values, which are essential to our success, are:Be Rock Solid - Build trust and be trusted. Be the one we all look to and can depend on.Be You - We want you to bring your best everyday.
Be yourself and make your mark in your individual way.Be the Future - Embrace change. Drive Progress. Own the challenge.TPBN1_UKTJ