Delivery Manager
A delivery manager helps teams work efficiently using Agile methods. They remove blockers, keep the team focused, and make sure work is delivered on time.
What they do
- create and maintain an agile environment
- remove blockers and support continuous delivery
- manage dependencies and risks across teams
- facilitate communication between technical and non-technical stakeholders
- support team autonomy
- work closely with Service Owners and Product Managers to keep work flowing smoothly
Key outputs
- Delivery plans - define key milestones and sprint cycles
- Risk and dependency logs - identify and manage project risks
- Sprint plans and retrospectives - track team progress and improvements
- Technology and architecture documentation - outline system structure and integrations
Project tasks
- Discovery - set up Agile ways of working, identify risks, and consider accessibility
- Alpha - manage workflow, remove blockers, and make sure Agile events take place
- Beta - oversee MVP delivery, manage dependencies, and support team autonomy
- Live - maintain service uptime, refine team processes, and promote continuous delivery
Hiring considerations
Before hiring, consider whether the skills already exist in your organisation. Training or reallocating staff might be a more effective way to fill gaps.
- When to hire - if teams are struggling with Agile delivery, blockers are slowing progress, or coordination across teams is lacking
- When to upskill - if a team member is experienced in facilitating Agile ways of working, resolving risks, and managing dependencies
- Essential skills - Agile methodologies, risk management, team facilitation, stakeholder engagement
- Common tools - Jira, Trello (for sprint planning), Microsoft Teams (for stand-ups), Miro (for retrospectives)