Head of Technology

About us Based in the heart of vibrant Bristol, Proctor + Stevenson is a highly respected, international creative agency with a focus on measurable results. Whether on or offline, we provide a full range of design and marketing services, from strategy, campaigns and lead generation to brand building, events, product communications and web builds. Role purpose The Head of Technology is responsible for the leadership, management and continual improvement of the agency's technology function. Working across software development, DevOps, infrastructure, security and IT services, the role ensures the successful delivery of technology solutions for clients while maintaining secure, scalable and efficient internal systems. The role acts as the bridge between business requirements and technical execution, ensuring technology teams are aligned, well-supported and capable of delivering exceptional outcomes. The Head of Technology is a key member of the management team, contributing to operational planning and supporting the wider business in achieving its commercial and client service objectives. The role also supports the Business Development Manager with tender and proposal involvement and lead evaluation. Key Accountabilities Technology Leadership Lead the day-to-day management of the agency's technology function, including software development, DevOps, infrastructure, security and IT support. Translate business objectives into practical technology plans and delivery roadmaps. Develop and maintain technology standards, governance frameworks and best practices. Ensure internal technology systems and client-focused development platforms remain secure, scalable, resilient and fit for future growth. Provide technical leadership and guidance across client and internal projects. Team & People Management Lead, mentor and develop a multidisciplinary team including developers, DevOps engineers, QA specialists and IT personnel. Set clear objectives, development plans and performance expectations for Technology Department and individuals within the team. Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, technical excellence and continuous improvement. Manage team capacity, resource planning and recruitment to ensure successful project delivery. Client & Project Delivery Oversee the successful delivery of technical projects across the client portfolio. Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget and to agreed quality standards. Work closely with project managers, account teams and stakeholders to manage technical requirements, risks and dependencies. Act as the senior escalation point for technical delivery issues and complex solution challenges. Contribute technical expertise during discovery, planning and solution design activities. Infrastructure, Security, IT Operations and AI Governance Own the management and performance of internal IT infrastructure, cloud platforms and business-critical systems. Ensure appropriate security controls, monitoring and operational processes are in place. Lead compliance activities relating to ISO 27001, GDPR and cybersecurity best practices. Manage relationships with technology vendors, suppliers and service partners. Oversee business continuity, disaster recovery and operational resilience planning. Process Improvement & Innovation Identify opportunities to improve efficiency through automation, tooling and process optimisation. Evaluate emerging technologies and make recommendations for adoption where there is clear business value. Drive improvements in software development practices, quality assurance and release management. Support initiatives that enhance client solutions and internal operations. Skills and experience Essential experience: Significant experience leading software development and technology teams within an agency environment. Proven experience managing developers alongside IT and infrastructure functions. Strong understanding of modern web technologies, cloud platforms and software development methodologies. Experience managing technical delivery in a client-facing environment. Knowledge of DevOps, CI/CD, cloud hosting and platform operations. Experience implementing security, compliance and governance controls. Strong stakeholder management and communication skills. Experience managing budgets, suppliers and technology investments. Demonstrable ability to build, motivate and develop high-performing teams. Desirable experience: Agency, digital services or consultancy experience. AWS experience. ISO 27001 experience. Agile, Scrum, SAFe or ITIL certification. Knowledge of CMS, CRM and digital experience platforms. Experience of our current core web technologies, including Payload, Drupal, WebFlow and Laravel. Experience with AI, automation and workflow optimisation technologies. Person specification Pragmatic and solution-oriented leader. Strong communicator capable of translating technical concepts into business language. Highly organised with strong prioritisation and decision-making skills. Collaborative and approachable leadership style. Passionate about technology, innovation and continuous improvement. Commercially aware and focused on delivering measurable business outcomes. Experience of managing, motivating and developing teams. What we offer Hybrid working 4 Day working week Family friendly benefits Private medical insurance Company pension scheme 23 days holiday, increasing to 25 – plus bank holidays Training and development opportunities – technical, professional and other exciting skills Salary Sacrifice car scheme Cycle to work scheme with secure cycle parking (and showers and a drying room at the office!). Retail and gym discounts Team socials such as board game nights and other fun nights/days out Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Commitment We are proud to be a certified B Corp, committed to operating as a responsible and sustainable business. Our CSR approach focuses on making a positive impact on our people, our communities, and the environment. Every colleague contributes to helping us uphold these commitments. As part of this role, you are expected to: Support an inclusive, fair, and equitable workplace where everyone can thrive. Act in ways that promote our environmental goals, including reducing waste and using resources responsibly. Participate in community and social impact initiatives that strengthen our local and global communities. Apply ethical decision‑making in day‑to‑day work, ensuring integrity and accountability. Champion and adhere to our CSR and B Corp policies, helping us continuously improve.