Release Manager

Job Summary: The Release Management function is responsible for deploying changes into an information technology (IT) environment. Once one or more changes are developed, tested, and packaged into releases for deployment, release management is responsible for introducing these changes and managing their release. Release management also contributes to the efficient introduction of changes by combining them into one release and deploying them together. The Release Manager will be responsible for the overall release process (policies, planning, implementing and communicating). Policies and Reporting – Write and enforce policies that support the Release Management process.  Create Key Performance Indicators (KPI s) for release management.  Create and maintain Service Improvement Plans for the Release Management process. Planning and implementation activities include; Ensure components for each release are designed, built, categorized, prioritized, published, maintained, and communicated via release schedule across all groups involved (customers internal and external to IT). Manage the release in the Test, QA and Production computing environments. Ensure the release is managed in the software versioning tool and follows needed processes. Establish and ensure each release follows version control process. Define and track release milestones through out the SDLC lifecycle. Schedule, coordinate and publish supported hardware platforms/configurations. Manage and provide direction to Release Analysts in multiple locations. Define and ensure each release follows a Roll-out procedure. Coordinate activities with IS Department and business customers to ensure a smooth and trouble-free roll out of releases. Integrate activities with Developers, Change Management, Configuration Management and the Quality Assurance. Ensure Release Notes are completed for each release. Establish and maintain Definitive Software Libraries and the Definitive Hardware store plan and tools. Ensure software delivered to the Production environment can be maintained from the source code.Communicating Implement a repeatable communication plan Design/implement communication documents Ensure communication occurs to all stakeholders as needed Ensure communication is documented and accessible to all stakeholders as neededJob Responsibilities: Essential Functions:· Manage the activities of the release management process for the IS organization. For releases with large and complex scopes, the release manager forms a team to manage the release activities. The release manager selects the team members and assigns team roles and responsibilities· Driving the release strategy, which is the overarching design, plan, and approach for deployment of a change into production in collaboration with the change management.· Determine the readiness of each release based on release criteria (quality of release, release package and production environment readiness, training and support plans, rollout and back-out plans, and risk management plan).· Provide a packaged release for all changes deployed into production and only deploy changes approved by change management.· Track approved changes throughout the release process.· Ensure that changes are reported to configuration management for entry in the configuration management database (CMDB).· Needs configuration management information to build and verify valid test environments in the development phase of the new release.· May perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned Other Activities:· Provides assistance to IS departments and Change Manager as required.  Adaptability Requirements:  High-Position requires a high degree of adaptability.  Incumbent will be faced with a variety of issues on a day-to-day basis and will be expected to respond to these issues appropriately. Working Conditions:Minimal TravelOffice environment40hr work week (normally); exceptions may occur as situations require. Experience and Education:· 5+ years  Release Management process experience required.· 3+ years strong leadership experience preferred.· 2+ years  Change Management process experience required. · 2+ years working with off-shore development and QA teams· 2+ years using Software Configuration Management & Version Control, Processes & Tools· 2+ years working in a Software Development company·  ITIL Certification preferred· Bachelor's Degree preferred. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:  · Experience with Automated Batch Scheduling System & Regression Testing · Experience with IS Multi-Tiered System Operations, including Web, Application and Database Operational Support & Services · Software QC process experience or knowledge · IS application design and delivery is highly desirable· Experience working in a software development environment that supports many computer platforms. · Strong Project Management skills · Possess creative problem solving skills · Strong quantitative, analytical and conceptual thinking skills · Ability to work independently and be an effective contributor in a diversified team · Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills; ability to positively interact with individuals at all levels of the organization · Effective influencing and  negotiation skills with proven ability to work with groups following conflicting agendas and still be able to deliver effective results· Must work well within a deadline-driven environment · Ability to prioritize and organize effectively, attention to detail · Ability to use personal computer and software applications (i.e. word processing, spreadsheet, etc)   We offer a comprehensive benefits package, childcare discount and more! To apply for this position, please click the Apply Now button. To see a list of all of our current openings, please visit our website at http://knowledgelearning.careers.. Knowledge Learning Corporation is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. *CB*