Software Development Manager

We are seeking an experienced Programming Manager to lead a small development team while remaining hands-on in development and technical problem-solving. This role combines team leadership with active coding, solution design, and project delivery. You will report to the Director of IT.

This is a fully onsite position to support close collaboration with internal teams.

Join our team and help us continue Forward Corporation’s century-long tradition of excellence! Forward Corporation is a fifth-generation, family-owned and operated Michigan company that has been in business for over 100 years. Known primarily for its Shell and Marathon convenience stores, Forward’s portfolio has grown to include Subway restaurants, the LumberJack Lodge and Restaurant, a Super 8, and Ideal Party Stores of Bay City. Forward Corp. also owns and operates Forward Energy, a home heating business, and T.R. McTaggart, a custom screen printing and embroidery company. Headquartered in Standish, MI, Forward proudly employs over 750 Michigan residents statewide.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of three developers, including workload planning and performance management
• Translate business needs into technical solutions and project plans
• Design, develop, and maintain applications, data solutions, and reporting systems
• Write, review, and optimize code across multiple technologies
• Build and support BI dashboards, reports, and data pipelines
• Drive projects from requirements through delivery
• Collaborate across departments to identify automation and improvement opportunities
• Establish and enforce development standards and best practices

Qualifications

• 8 years of software development experience, including leadership or team lead experience
• Strong experience in several of the following: SQL, Java/Spring, Python, web development (JavaScript/TypeScript), BI tools (Power BI or similar)
• Cloud experience (Azure, AWS, or similar) preferred
• DevOps experience preferred
• Strong database design and administration skills
• Proven ability to manage and develop technical staff
• Strong communication skills with both technical and non-technical audiences
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Paid time off
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k)

If you are a motivated Programming Manager and want to make a meaningful impact, we encourage you to apply. If interested, please visit forwardcorp.com.