Development and Data Team Leader

Rochdale Council is seeking an experienced and forward‑thinking Applications, Development & Data Team Leader to help deliver the next stage of our digital transformation. This is a key leadership role responsible for modernising how we build, support and integrate the systems and digital services our workforce and residents rely on.

You will play a central role in deploying AI and automation to improve efficiency, reduce manual processes and create smarter, user‑centred services. As part of strengthening our digital foundations, you will also be responsible for bringing the Applications and Development teams together, creating shared standards, collaborative delivery models and unified engineering practices.

Reporting to the Head of ICT & Digital, you will:

• Lead multidisciplinary teams across Applications, Development, Adult Care Systems and Children’s Services Systems.
• Unify the Applications and Development teams, aligning processes, skills and tooling to improve delivery quality, collaboration and system ownership.
• Identify and deliver AI, automation and data‑driven solutions that meaningfully improve efficiency and reduce manual effort across services.
• Oversee the optimisation, enhancement and integration of key digital platforms and line of business systems.
• Work with senior leaders to translate business needs into secure, practical and user‑focused digital improvements.
• Ensure systems meet high standards for security, resilience, accessibility, cyber compliance and data protection.
• Promote modern development, Dev Ops, automation and data practices to drive continuous improvement.

• Proven experience leading applications, development or data teams in a complex environment.
• Strong understanding of enterprise systems, integration, development life cycles and user‑centred digital approaches.
• Practical experience with AI, automation or intelligent data solutions.
• A collaborative leadership style with a focus on team cohesion and cross‑functional working.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills.
• Strong understanding of GDPR, cyber security and information governance.

• Flexible working arrangements to support work‑life balance.
• Fair and competitive salaries, with access to the Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Generous annual leave and additional wellbeing support.
• Learning and development opportunities, including secondments and career progression routes.
• A modern, award‑winning workplace at Number One Riverside, named Best Corporate Workplace in the UK.
• A supportive culture that values innovation, inclusion, personal development and public service values.

To apply for this job role please upload your CV with a supporting document that provides evidence of how you meet the person specification of the job role.

The Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects staff to share this commitment.

If you are interested in what we are offering and have the skills we are looking for we want to hear from you. If you would like to discuss the post further, please contact Scott Moseley, Head of ICT and Digital. S

If you have completed the GM Elevate (Leadership Development) Programme, please indicate this within the ‘About You’ or ‘Supporting Statement’ section of your application.

Unfortunately, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role