Software Development Manager

Assurant, Inc. helps people protect what matters most to them. We provide specialty protection products and related services to safeguard against risks. With a strong commitment to service, sophisticated technology and an array of flexible tools, we build solutions to meet customers’ needs.

Disability RMS is the nation’s leading provider of turnkey disability risk management products and services. Located in South Portland, Maine, Disability RMS has more than 350 employees with the specialized product knowledge and service skills required to succeed in today’s complex risk protection market. Disability RMS holds the distinction of twice being named the Best Large Company to Work for in Maine, an accolade awarded by the Best Companies Group, in partnership with the Maine Department of Labor. The Software Development Manager is responsible for leading a team of software developers responsible for the design, development, testing, and operations of applications critical to the business. Works collaboratively playing a lead role with developers, DA’s, DBA’s, project teams, business areas and other architects to ensure an enterprise focus. Responsible for the integrity of project deliverables and adherence to standards while driving the team and applications forward.

* Leads, manages, hires, trains, retains and motivates a team of IT professionals. Responsible for their scheduling, development, evaluation and performance management. * Responsible for assigning developers to projects to ensure deliverables are met. * Supports and consults with management on issues of infrastructure development and department vision for tactical and strategic planning. * Helps determine ongoing software and training needs for developers to ensure efficient use of available technology. * Applies prevailing technologies and recommends new technologies, tools and methods for the resolution of business and technical problems. * Applies industry and internal best practices in solution of technical and business problems. * Drives forums with the development team to review, improve and implement needed process, standards, technology and environment changes. * Ensures that quality procedures are in place and adhered to by participating in project walkthroughs and design sessions. * Works collaboratively to achieve results. * Partners with the business and the PSO to understand the business focus, assist in technology learning for the business, and suggest new/innovative ways to solve business problems. * Escalates critical issues for appropriate/timely resolution as needed. * Ensures that proper production support arrangements are made for areas of responsibility, including after-hours support. * Ensures that the team is appropriately trained and cross trained. Develop and maintain training standards for various technologies (as appropriate), anticipating staffing needs for future development. * Strong ability to collaborate with senior leadership and the PSO to define and implement creative solutions and measure delivery results. Key attribute - to work well with individuals at all levels of the organization. * Generates and champions new ideas and initiatives; goes beyond status quo; acts as a catalyst of change by presenting a persuasive case for changing processes and practices; is resourceful, creative and open-minded in developing solutions. * Resolves team issues/conflicts. * Seeks and accepts feedback; acts to improve self. * Effectively communicates feedback and raises issues using tact and diplomacy. * Works as a developer when necessary. * Acts as Project Manager for Baseline work. * Other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

**Basic Qualifications:** * 3+ years experience managing a team of software developers * 5+ years of technical experience as a software developer * Required technical skills and knowledge of: SQL Server, OOAD, N-tier Architecture, .Net, ASP.Net, C#, XML **Other Requirements** * Ability to communicate and influence at all levels, from the new college hire developer to an executive audience * Experience taking a leading role in building software systems that have been successfully delivered to customers * Hands-on expertise in many disparate technologies, typically ranging from front-end user interfaces through to back-end systems and all points in between * Knowledge and understanding of conceptual architectures (Web, Client-server, Real-time) * Experience with Systems integration * Demonstrated leadership ability and skills * Demonstrated business and systems analysis skills * Pro-active thinking, analytical thinking and problem solving skills * Ability to mentor and direct work to others * Ability to balance financial, architectural, business and department objectives * Excellent collaboration skills with all levels of the business and department organizations * Commitment to results and ability to deliver results in assigned time frames * Ability to act as a change agent * Strong written and verbal communication skills * Strong critical thinking skills * Ability to see "the big picture" * Demonstrated ability to exercise initiative, independent judgment and to be a self starter **Preferred Qualifications** * 5 years experience managing a team of software developers * 10 years of technical experience as a software developer