Release Manager

Job Description

• We are looking for a Release Manager to act as a Release & Deployment Manager on a large complex modernization program.
• The Release Manager will own the deployment planning of releases, facilitate the execution of all the actual deployment activities and facilitate post-deployment validation, hyper care, and transition to support teams for ongoing business as usual support.
• He/she will manage the technical components of releases on multiple projects of varying sizes while working closely with all technical functions to establish and manage plans to successfully deploy releases into our production environments.
• Must be prepared to work outside core hours on release days as deployments are typically done out of core business hours to minimize system outages.

• Forward Plan the release windows and cycles across a portfolio
• The Release Manager will manage risks and resolves issues that affect release scope, schedule, and quality
• Measure and monitor progress to ensure application releases are delivered on time and within budget, and that they meet or exceed expectations
• Coordinate release content and effort based on the service request backlog, pending service requests, third party applications, or operating system updates
• Communicate all key project plans, commitments, and changes including requirements, QA plans, schedule, and scope changes
• The Release Manager will manage relationships and coordinate work between different teams at different locations
• Conduct Release Readiness reviews, Milestone Reviews, and Business Go/No-Go reviews
• Produce Deployment, Run Books and Implementation Plans
• Weekly Release Reporting
• Communicate release details and schedules to the Business as required
• Negotiate, plan and manage all release activities
• Work with release engineers to understand impacts of branches and code merges
• Maintains the release schedule for all core services and ensures alignment across key partners and vendors.
• Continually work towards making improvements in the release process
• Lead and co-ordinate the Go-Live activities including the execution of the deployment Plans and checklists.
• Develops scripts and automation tools used to build, integrate, and deploy software releases to various platforms
• Participate in CAB meetings to discuss release scope and/or roadblocks
• Maintains a release repository and manages key information such as build and release procedures, dependencies, and notification lists
• Researches new software development and configuration management methodologies and technologies and analyzes their application to current configuration management needs
• Identify and manage technical risks, issues, and interdependencies specific to the deployment of all technical components
• Establish a close working relationship with Scrum Teams/Kanban Leads/Product Managers and various technical teams across the organization

• Knowledge of software design, development, test, and delivery methodologies.
• Fluency in waterfall SDLC and Agile development methodologies as they relate to delivering and implementing IT solutions required.
• Knowledge of the retail sector.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong conflict management and facilitation skills.
• Bachelors Degree in Information Technology or equivalent work experience
• Evidence of continuous learning (e.g., relative certifications)
• 5-10 years of related work experience