The Head of IT and Platform Development will take end-to-end responsibility for the technical strategy, systems architecture, platform development, deployment, and ongoing support of MES’s digital infrastructure. This is a hands-on leadership role, ideal for someone who combines deep technical capability with strong strategic oversight and operational delivery skills. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced, high-trust environment and will be instrumental in scaling our technology function to meet future growth. A significant focus of this role will be to identify and implement opportunities to embed Artificial Intelligence into our platform to enhance automation, decision-making, data processing, and client engagement. Key Responsibilities Lead the development, deployment, and maintenance of MES’s core web-based platform, built primarily using Node.js, React.js, and PostgreSQL. Architect and oversee scalable cloud infrastructure using AWS (including EC2, RDS, S3, IAM, etc.). Spearhead the design and integration of AI-powered features into the MES platform, including automation, data analysis, document processing, and user-facing tools. Define and execute IT strategy, ensuring alignment with business objectives and regulatory requirements. Manage DevOps pipelines, CI/CD processes, security controls, and performance monitoring. Collaborate with leadership to prioritise development roadmaps and technical investments. Ensure robust cybersecurity standards, data integrity, and disaster recovery protocols. Manage and mentor in-house developers or external contractors as the team expands. Oversee internal IT systems and provide strategic recommendations for continuous improvement. Maintain documentation, technical standards, and compliance with relevant data and financial regulations. Key Requirements Essential: Proven experience in a senior IT or development leadership role. Strong hands-on experience with Node.js and React.js for backend and frontend development, PostgreSQL for relational database design and optimisation and AWS services and infrastructure management. Familiarity with or interest in AI tools, frameworks, and APIs (e.g. LLMs, machine learning models, natural language processing). Deep understanding of web application architecture, security best practices, and RESTful APIs. Experience with deployment pipelines, Git-based version control, and issue tracking tools. Strong problem-solving, communication, and project management skills. Desirable: Experience within the financial services or regulated environments. Understanding of GDPR, ISO 27001, or other security/compliance frameworks. Prior work integrating AI features or tools into operational platforms. What We Offer The opportunity to shape and lead MES’s technology roadmap from the ground up. A collaborative, supportive team culture that values innovation and initiative. Hybrid working flexibility and autonomy. Competitive salary and benefits package. A chance to make a meaningful impact in a company committed to digital excellence in financial services.